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If there are 10 books you ever read in your life, this should be on the list...

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Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I have ever read. Part history, part biography, part cold war drama - all within a context of game theory and its evolution over the second half of the twentieth century. Educated as an accountant and true to my profession, I was never exposed to game theory in my schooling or professional career (properly so I might add). I was introduced to it by a friend of mine (a lawyer - no pun intended). The topic perked my interest, just as it does for EVERYONE, because it is such a fundamental concept to so many different situations we encounter in our lives. For those like me who are curious about this intriguing topic... this book is easy enough for a layman, and detailed enough for a math geek. In short, for anyone like me who enjoys understanding how the world works, this will be one of the most influential books you'll ever read. Thank you Mr. Poundstone.

Great introduction to the history of Game Theory and John von Neumann

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I wont write a long review since others have done that. Ill just say that this is a great book for the layman if they want to understand something of the history of Game Theory and John von Neumann.

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If you wondered why the Prisoner's Dilemma is a Dilemma or why the Theory of Games is more than a game, you should read this book.

Game Theory & John von Neumann

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The book is basically a biography of the illustrative John von Neumann in the context of game theory (or better science of conflict) and its role in the Cold War. Readers interested in learning more about game theory might be disappointed while discovering the biography of one of the most important scientist of the last century and the social history in the nuclear arms race. Additionally, readers will get a better understanding of the almost infinite complexity of prisoner dilemma and TIT FOR TAT-like strategies not taught at university.

Concluding in JvN's words; 'Long-term survival of the human race depends on our devising better ways to promote cooperation than any now in existence'.

Wonderful synthesis of so many fields

Customer Rating:
I do not have enough words of praise for this book. It so masterfully weaves together numerous areas of human interest. Who knew that game theory could be applied so broadly?
The book is centered largely around the use of game theory during the cold war, and the life of John Von Neuman, but makes numerous other connections. For example, the parallel to the economic dilemma of "the Free Rider Problem" is discussed. Cooperation, as an evolutionary necessity, is talked about. The psychology of decision making is a focus. Most interesting was the connection that different styles of playing has to ones political views.
I found myself pausing every few pages to absorb and integrate what was written into my world view. This is not a book that merely entertains -- it is a book that influences.