ABSTRACT

The Hulk is undeniably one of the strongest superheroes in the universe. The problem is that Hulk is not only strong, he’s utterly uncontrollable. Bruce Banner, Hulk’s alter ego, on the other hand is as predictable as the sun coming up. Under the surface there is a raging battle between Hulk and Banner, each of whom has a different set of preferences and consequently a different path to maximize their utility. The two halves of Hulk pose a unique dilemma in comics: yes, he is powerful, but do you really want him on your team? Despite the risks inherent in bringing Hulk to a fight, the Avengers have joined forces with the green Goliath any number of times. To understand why the Avengers are willing to accept that risk, this chapter begins by utilizing indifference curves. The second part of the chapter relies upon game theory to determine the motives of the Avengers when they approach Hulk for help. Putting these two tools to use, the chapter seeks to answer the question of how the risk-tolerance of the Avengers impacts their judgment to induce what they hope will be a good Hulk to join their battles to save the world.