Scott H. Ainsworth

Scott H. Ainsworth is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs, where he focuses on rational choice models of politics, policymaking, and the intersection of public institutions (e.g., Congress, courts, agencies) with private interests, particularly lobbying. He has taught courses such as Theory of Institutions (POLS 4073) and Game Theory (POLS 8020).

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Political Science from Washington University in St. Louis (specialized in interest groups, lobbying, and game-theoretic models)
  • B.A. in Political Science from the University of Rochester (introduced to social choice theory and game theory by William H. Riker)

Research Interests
Ainsworth’s research explores how public institutions interact with private interests, emphasizing rational choice frameworks. His work analyzes lobbying as a central mechanism of public-private engagement, alongside broader applications of game theory to political behavior and policy outcomes.

Professional Engagement
Since 2012, Ainsworth has taught Introductory Game Theory in the ICPSR Summer Program at the University of Michigan. He maintains an active academic profile through teaching and research collaborations within the School of Public and International Affairs.