Thomas C. Schelling was an American economist and game theorist, born on April 14, 1921, in Oakland, California. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and his Ph.D. in economics from Harvard University. Schelling was a professor of economics at Harvard and later at the University of Maryland.
Schelling was known for his work on game theory and its applications to international relations and conflict resolution. He was a pioneer in the field of nuclear strategy and arms control, and his book “Arms and Influence” (1966) became a classic in the field. In the book, Schelling argued that the ability to use force was often more effective than the actual use of force, and that the threat of violence could be used to achieve political goals.
Schelling was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2005, along with Robert Aumann, for their work on game theory. He passed away on December 13, 2016, at the age of 95.
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1972: Arms and Influence, by Thomas C. Schelling
Arms and Influence by Thomas C. Schelling, published in 1972, is a groundbreaking work that delves into the strategic aspects of conflict and negotiation. This first edition book offers a meticulous analysis of how nations use military power to influence their adversaries, exploring the dynamics of deterrence, coercion, and bargaining. With a focus on game theory and the psychology behind decision-making, Schelling provides readers with a thought-provoking examination of international relations. Arms and Influence is an essential read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of power and diplomacy in the modern world.