game theory reveals the complexities (and fragility) of a nuclear deterrent
- Written by Renaud Foucart, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Lancaster University Management School, Lancaster University
Since the cold war, deterrence has been a fundamental principle underpinning peace between global superpowers. The idea is that if two sides have nuclear weapons, the consequences of actually using them mean the button never gets pressed.
But the strategy goes beyond the countries which own the weapons. In practice, for instance, most of Europe...