Math 116     MATHEMATICS OF EQUITY:    Quantitative Approaches

Fair division or mathematical equity problems involve the allocation of people, goods or power among the members of a group. This course examines algorithms for allocating both divisible and indivisible assets and, especially, the notion of fairness as a quantifiable property and as the subject of several important theorems. Theories are illustrated by historical and contemporary examples, such as original quantitative arguments by Thomas Jefferson and Daniel Webster, a 1999 patent application for a division algorithm, and problems involved in the operations of the Law of the Sea Convention and the U. S. Electoral College. Computer software: Excel.