Steven Brams

Steven Brams is a Professor of Politics at New York University's Department of Politics within the College of Arts & Science. His research focuses on game theory, social choice theory, fair division, voting systems, and international politics. He holds a B.S. from MIT (1962) and a Ph.D. from Northwestern University (1966).

Brams' work emphasizes fair allocation mechanisms, including envy-free division algorithms, voting system reforms, and rule design in sports and conflict resolution. He has collaborated extensively with researchers like D. Marc Kilgour and Mehmet S. Ismail on topics such as fair shootouts in soccer, equitable chess openings, and gerrymandering solutions.

• Education:
  • B.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1962
  • Ph.D., Northwestern University, 1966

His research explores how game-theoretic models can address real-world problems, such as improving voting systems, resolving disputes, and enhancing fairness in sports. Notable contributions include the 'Catch-Up' rule for service sports and the 'Excess Method' for multiwinner approval voting.

• Awards:
  • American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow (1992)
  • Guggenheim Fellow (1986–1987)
  • Russell Sage Foundation Visiting Scholar (1998–1999)
  • Elinor Ostrom Prize (2013)

Brams has advised on electoral reforms and contributed to policy discussions on fair division in international conflicts, such as the Spratly Islands dispute. His interdisciplinary work bridges mathematics, political science, and philosophy, addressing both theoretical and applied challenges in decision-making.