The Politics of the First World War: A Course in Game Theory and International Security
Cambridge University Press, 2/21/2019
EAN 9781108444378, ISBN10: 1108444377
Paperback, 464 pages, 25.1 x 23.1 x 2 cm
Language: English
The Great War is an immense, confusing and overwhelming historical conflict - the ideal case study for teaching game theory and international relations. Using thirteen historical puzzles, from the outbreak of the war and the stability of attrition, to unrestricted submarine warfare and American entry into the war, this book provides students with a rigorous yet accessible training in game theory. Each chapter shows, through guided exercises, how game theoretical models can explain otherwise challenging strategic puzzles, shedding light on the role of individual leaders in world politics, cooperation between coalitions partners, the effectiveness of international law, the termination of conflict, and the challenges of making peace. Its analytical history of World War I also surveys cutting edge political science research on international relations and the causes of war. Written by a leading game theorist known for his expertise of the war, this textbook includes useful student features such as chapter key terms, contemporary maps, a timeline of events, a list of key characters and additional end-of-chapter game-theoretic exercises.
Preface
1. Introduction
the Great War
2. The theory of War I
commitment problems
3. Armed continent
the Anglo-German naval race
4. Leaping into the dark
Europe goes to war
5. The theory of World War II
information problems
6. A scrap of paper
Belgium, France, and British entry
7. Troubled partnerships
coalitions at war
8. The best laid plans
attrition's static horror
9. Choosing sides
building military coalitions
10. Coordinating caution
naval war in the North Sea
11. The theory of World War III
commitment and war termination
12. The theory of World War IV
information and war termination
13. Too proud to fight?
U-boats and American neutrality
14. The end of the beginning
victory, defeat, and peace
15. Conclusion
history and the present
Bibliography
Index.