Contest

Abstract

Abstract This chapter addresses value uncertainty, and the main difference between it and the two preceding chapters is that the analysis here is about outcome of a contest between actors with different interests. The form is about direct interaction between parties. Match racing between sailing boats is an example of a contest, as is the final of the world chess championship. The outcome of contests, as states of the world, follow from a direct interaction or even confrontation by contestants. There is thus no specific empirical domain or ‘content’ of the form called a ‘contest’. A contest must not be peaceful. The classic duel—as a direct and physical, often organized, conflict between two parties—was a way of settling states of the world that has its roots in the contestation of claims. The outcomes settle uncertainties and enable actions with more certain outcomes.