Citation

Hovi J. J. Peace Res. 1987; 24(4): 407-416.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1987, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/002234338702400407

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The essay offers a review of Steven J. Brams' book Superpower Games. In this book, Brams uses 2 x 2 games to investigate important aspects of the superpower relationship. Particular attention is given to problems of deterrence, armaments, and verification -- the aim being partly to explain actual behavior by the superpowers, and partly to provide possible solutions to their dilemmas. A number of models are presented and analyzed with great skill and imagination. In some cases, Brams considers the possibility that the players use probabilistic strategies, while in others, the models are analyzed by invoking the so-called Theory of Moves. While the present essay stresses the importance of some of Brams' results, it also questions the relevance of his argument at a few points. In particular, it is argued that the Theory of Moves may be less widely applicable than Brams seems to believe.