Prof. Robert M. Axelrod is the 2022 BMI Prize Laureate
The 2022 BMI Prize has been awarded to Prof. Axelrod for his outstanding contribution to conflict resolution in its broader sense
January 26th, 2023
The 2022 BMI Prize Laureate is Prof. Robert M. Axelrod, Distinguished University Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, Emeritus, at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, University of Michigan.
The prize is awarded to Prof. Robert Axelrod for his contribution to the field of conflict resolution in its broader sense, focusing on his ground-breaking work in applying game theory to conflict resolution.
In his research, which employed the Prisoner’s Dilemma, Axelrod discovered that cooperative choices and beneficial behaviors, with punishments in place for those that do not adhere to such, are the best way to manage conflicts. He has applied his academic findings to modern conflicts, working with the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces in the former Yugoslavia and sitting down with professionals from all sides.
Axelrod has also shared his ideas with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel and published his research in Science and Harvard’s Negotiation Journal. The value of Prof. Axelrod’s research and policy engagement on conflict resolution has previously been recognized by the National Academy of Sciences (USA), with their award for Contributions of Behavioural and Social Science to the Prevention of Nuclear War, and by President Obama from whom Axelrod received the National Medal of Science.
Robert Axelrod, Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan, remarked: “I am truly honoured to have been selected as 2022 Prize Laureate of the Boris Mints Institute Prize. The conflicts we witness around the world seem endless. However, as my research has shown, when two sides expect to interact for a long time, cooperation based on reciprocity can emerge and be sustained.”
Dr. Boris Mints, Founder and President of the BMI, added: “I am delighted that Robert Axelrod has been awarded this prize. His academic contributions, which are so relevant to the work of the Institute, make him a very worthy winner.”
About the Boris Mints Prize:
The Boris Mints Institute Prize was launched in 2017 to reward and recognize an exceptional individual who has devoted his or her research to solving a strategic global challenge, and whose public action and ideas have contributed to the welfare of a significant number of communities worldwide. Previous winners have been awarded Nobel Prizes and are leading academics addressing global issues including poverty, sustainable development, and access to vital resources.
For further information about Prof. Robert M. Axelrod:
https://fordschool.umich.edu/faculty/robert-axelrod
https://www.societyforscience.org/alumni/notable/robert-axelrod/