Book Review: World War II Battles Reconsidered: Game Theory and Decision Science Perspectives on Gazala, El Alamein, Falaise, and Arnhem

Authors

Andy Nichols

Files

Description

Author: Mark Thompson

Reviewed by: Lieutenant Colonel Andy Nichols, US Army War College class of 2024

Former Harvard professor Mark Thompson applies cutting-edge decision science and game theory to four pivotal World War II battles, revealing how strategic missteps and psychological biases shaped their outcomes. From Gazala’s disastrous command decisions to Arnhem’s flawed reliance on surprise, each case is dissected with analytical precision and historical depth. This groundbreaking study challenges conventional military narratives and offers a fresh lens on leadership, risk, and battlefield logic.

Publication Date

1-16-2026

Keywords

World War II, game theory, Gazala, El Alamein, Falaise, Arnhem

Disciplines

Defense and Security Studies

Recommended Citation

Andy Nichols, Book Review: World War II Battles Reconsidered: Game Theory and Decision Science Perspectives on Gazala, El Alamein, Falaise, and Arnhem ( US Army War College Press, 2026),
https://press.armywarcollege.edu/parameters_bookshelf/116