Multiagent systems are distributed systems that consist of multiple intelligent actors--agents--that may be humans or programs. The paradigm of multiagent systems finds application in the social and computing sciences. Although the study of multiagent systems is relatively new to computer science, it is rapidly growing in importance and popularity.

This book is a presentation, in 14 chapters and four appendices, of some of the primary theory of multiagent systems. The first four chapters provide background material in certain relevant areas, but are not specific to multiagent systems per se. The next two chapters deal with some concepts in game theory. The next three chapters use game theory to develop understanding in other areas. Two chapters then discuss standard protocols. Chapter 12, “Teams of Selfish Agents: An Introduction to Coalitional Game Theory,” is one of the best in the book, especially since its presentation style is only commonly encountered in research literature. Chapters 13 and 14 cover “Logics of Knowledge and Belief” and “Beyond Belief: Probability, Dynamics, and Intention” respectively. Appendices A to D deal with “Probability Theory,” “Linear and Integer Programming,” “Markov Decision Problems (MDPs),” and “Classical Logic,” respectively.

This book is written and produced very well, as to be expected from Cambridge University Press, and will undoubtedly be received very well by scholars and students interested in the subject. The one notable drawback is the complete lack of tutorial material; when preparing student exercises, instructors will need to do their own work or refer to other sources.