Game Theory and National Security - Softcover

Brams, Steven; Kilgour, D. Marc

9781557860040: Game Theory and National Security

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1557860041 ISBN 13: 9781557860040

Publisher: Blackwell Pub, 1988

This theoretical work attempts to show how certain parts of game theory can be applied to the rigorous development and careful analysis of several critical problems that afflict the security of nations, from the deterrence of foes who might launch attacks to the stabilization of crises that could explode into wars. Distinguishing the book is the deductive character of the analysis, which enables the authors to go beyond basic strategic dilemmas, embellish them with a good deal of structure to capture the essential strategic features of the situations they model, and add solutions that are, in some sense, optimal.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

From the Back Cover:

In this path-breaking theoretical work, political scientist Steven Brams and mathematician Mark Kilgour show how game theory can be applied to the rigorous development and thoughtful analysis of several critical problems that afflict the security of nations, from the deterrence of foes who might launch attacks, to the stabilization of crises that could explode into wars. In addition, they analyze a variety of related questions, including the interlocking preferences that fuel arms races, the strategic impact that Star Wars may have on nuclear deterrence, and optimal strategies for verifying arms control treaties.

Of interest to students on international relations and foreign policy as well as those concerned with the formal analysis of conflict, Game Theory and National Security provides new foundations for understanding the rational basis of international conflict.

About the Author:

Steven J. Brams is professor of politics at New York University and a leading authority in the strategic analysis of international conflict. He is the author or co-author of eight previous books, including Superpower Games and has worked for the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Institute for Defense Analyses.

D. Marc Kilgour is professor of mathematics at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Canada, and adjunct professor of systems design engineering at the University of Waterloo.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.