Numb3rs2005

Charlie Eppes:
It sounds like they created a classic game theory scenario doesn't it?

Marshall Penfield:
[Smiles] Yes it does, 'Johnny von Neumann', the old three man gunfight.

Colby Granger:
A mathematical gunfight huh?

Marshall Penfield:
Imagine a duel between three people. Now I'm the worst shot. I hit the target once every three tries.

[Indicates Charlie]

Marshall Penfield:
One of my opponents is better. Hits it twice every three shots.

[Indicates Colby]

Marshall Penfield:
The third guy is a dead shot. He never misses. Now each gets one shot. As the worst, I go first. Then Charlie, then Colby. Who do I aim for, for my one shot?

Colby Granger:
I guess me cause I'm the biggest danger right?

Marshall Penfield:
[Makes a gun shooting motion toward Charlie] I shoot Eppsey first, but not for the obvious reasons. Chances are two to one I'm going to miss.

Charlie Eppes:
And now it's my turn. Logic says I shoot Colby.

[Makes shooting motion toward Granger]

Colby Granger:
Right, cause if I'm still standing I'm gonna shoot you and I don't miss.

Charlie Eppes:
Exactly.

Marshall Penfield:
As the worst, I use the two better shooters against each other