Games and simulations

ResearchPublished 1964

A discussion of the usefulness of game theory for military analysis. The prevailing pessimism is premature and subject to reexamination. The advantages of a game-theoretic analysis are large. They include the possibility of dealing with a wide spectrum of strategic possibilities, the explicit inclusion of the basic two- or many-sidedness of military conflicts, and the opportunity for optimization. However, since game-theoretic analysis cannot be expected to deal with the staggering complexity of large-scale military engagements, progress will long be made primarily with highly simplified models. As a result, game-theoretic studies will need supplemental "unpacking" and "testing." Imbedding abstract games in a family of models whose aggregated solutions are refined and evaluated by more detailed simulation appears to be one promising direction.

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  • Availability: Available
  • Year: 1964
  • Print Format: Paperback
  • Paperback Pages: 5
  • Paperback Price: $15.00
  • Document Number: P-2901

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Games and simulations, RAND Corporation, P-2901, 1964. As of September 11, 2024: https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P2901.html
Chicago Manual of Style
Games and simulations. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1964. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P2901.html. Also available in print form.
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