Mr Chairman, in an era where interdisciplinary research bridges the gap between abstract theory and practical application, few scholars have left as indelible a mark on both academia and real-world problem-solving as Prof Aumann. A giant in the realms of mathematics and economics, Prof Aumann’s visionary contributions to game theory, his unwavering commitment to rational analysis, and his lifelong dedication to education have not only transformed academic disciplines but have also provided frameworks for understanding some of humanity’s most complex challenges.
Originating from the United States, Prof Aumann’s academic odyssey began at the City College of New York, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics, a foundational step towards the extraordinary journey that awaited him. He further honed his mathematical prowess at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, obtaining both a master’s and a PhD in mathematics. This academic foundation was the bedrock upon which he built his towering career, revolutionising game theory and economic analysis.
Prof Aumann’s academic appointments are a chronicle of distinction and influence. Since 1956, he has been an integral part of the mathematics department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he has served in various capacities, from an Instructor to an Emeritus Professor. His tenure has been marked by visiting professorships and research associations at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including Princeton University, Yale University, Stanford University, and the University of California at Berkeley. Also, Prof Aumann is one of our honorary professors due to his contributions to BNBU. These experiences have not only enriched his own academic pursuits but have also facilitated the exchange of ideas and collaboration across international borders.
Prof Aumann, a leading figure in the scientific community, has made groundbreaking contributions to the development of game theory and the foundations of mathematical economics. He is celebrated for his innovative work on repeated games, which has significantly enriched our understanding of strategic interactions over time. His research on the Shapley value has offered vital insights into the distribution of payoffs in cooperative games. Moreover, his theory of markets with a continuum of traders has radically transformed our understanding of market dynamics. Prof Aumann’s concepts of common knowledge and correlated equilibrium have significantly advanced epistemic game theory. Today, game theory is not only a paradigm in economics but also a cornerstone for artificial intelligence and distributed economy sciences like blockchain.
Aumann’s contributions have not only expanded theoretical boundaries but also influenced policy-making, business strategies, and social welfare. His academic accomplishments are matched by an impressive array of honours and awards that attest to his exceptional contributions. Prof Aumann is a member of numerous esteemed academies, including the National Academy of Sciences (USA), the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities, the British Academy, and the Royal Academy of Financial Science and Economics (Spain). He has been recognised with prestigious prizes such as the Harvey Prize in Science and Technology, the Israel Prize in Economics, the Lanchester Prize in Operations Research, the Erwin Plein Nemmers Prize in Economics, the EMET Prize in Economics, the Von Neumann Prize in Operations Research Theory, and the Bank of Sweden Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. These accolades are a testament to his unparalleled achievements and the enduring impact of his work.
Prof Aumann’s dedication to education and mentoring the next generation is equally commendable. He has supervised numerous doctoral theses, fostering the growth of young scholars in mathematics and economics. His commitment to fostering international understanding and cooperation is evident through his active participation in various international congresses and conferences, where he has shared his insights and expertise with a global audience, promoting intellectual exchange and collaboration.
Mr Chairman, in recognition of Prof Robert John Aumann’s extraordinary contributions to mathematics, economics, and education, his unwavering commitment to academic excellence, his pivotal role in shaping the fields of game theory and economic analysis, and his international reputation as a visionary scholar, it is my distinct honour and privilege to present him to you for the award of an Honorary Fellowship.
