TITLE: prerequisites for understanding game theory
QUESTION [10 upvotes]: I am from programming background but with very limited knowledge of maths.
I am very much eager to learn and apply game theory to understand dynamics of International Politics and economics. But I am facing difficulties to understand the maths involved in it. 
So, 

What are prerequisites for understanding the math in the game theory?
What are the authentic sources to understand game theory mathematically and 
and its application in the international politics and economics?

REPLY [2 votes]: Secondary-school math. And since game theory is essentially math, along the way you'll learn more math.
Ken Binmore's Playing for Real: A Text on Game Theory is suitable for undergraduates and doesn't get heavily mathematical at all.



What is game theory about?
How do I apply game theory?
Why is game theory right?


There's even a marker in the margin in places where you're allowed to skip some of the math and move on to the next bit.

It isn't easy to write in a light-hearted style when presenting mathematical material, but I did my best.

I think he did an excellent job.