# Finite and Infinite Games Tags: #literature ## Metadata * Author: [James P. Carse](https://www.amazon.comundefined) * ASIN: B004W3FM4A * ISBN: 1476731713 * Reference: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004W3FM4A * [Kindle link](kindle://book?action=open&asin=B004W3FM4A) ## Highlights A finite game is played for the purpose of winning, an infinite game for the purpose of continuing the play. — location: [37](kindle://book?action=open&asin=B004W3FM4A&location=37) ^ref-55930 --- It is an invariable principle of all play, finite and infinite, that whoever plays, plays freely. Whoever must play, cannot play. — location: [48](kindle://book?action=open&asin=B004W3FM4A&location=48) ^ref-27444 --- It is the case that we cannot play if we must play, but it is also the case that we cannot play alone. Thus, in every case, we must find an opponent, and in most cases teammates, who are willing to join in play with us. — location: [58](kindle://book?action=open&asin=B004W3FM4A&location=58) ^ref-46295 --- If the rules of a finite game are unique to that game it is evident that the rules may not change in the course of play—else a different game is being played. It is on this point that we find the most critical distinction between finite and infinite play: The rules of an infinite game must change in the course of play. The rules are changed when the players of an infinite game agree that the play is imperiled by a finite outcome—that is, by the victory of some players and the defeat of others. — location: [101](kindle://book?action=open&asin=B004W3FM4A&location=101) ^ref-44204 ---