Why We Fight

Christopher Blattman

"As what could end up as Europe s bloodiest war since 1945 grinds on, this is an apposite time for a book explaining why and when human beings fight Blattman identifies five logical ways why, despite all the reasons to compromise, people opt to fight. All five map quite neatly onto the war in Ukraine. [A] valuable guide, supported by engaging anecdotes, to what makes people turn to violence and why, mercifully, they are usually too sensible to do so. The Economist

Blattman deftly translates knotty ideas from game theory and social choice theory for a lay audience, weaving in colorful anecdotes from his own life and travels. Foreign Affairs

"Noting that the high costs of violence almost always make peaceful agreement a better solution to antagonisms than violence, University of Chicago economist Blattman analyzes forces that often counteract that logic, including the self-interest of leaders, ideological passions, miscalculation of an opponent s strength or motives, and mistrust This stimulating discussion of violence illuminates a fraught subject with sober reason." Publishers Weekly

Blattman shows us things we don t normally see and takes us to places we might be terrified to go. A captivating and intelligent book. Tim Harford, author of The Data Detective and The Undercover Economist
 
Engaging and profound, this deeply searching book explains the true origins of warfare, and it illustrates the ways that, despite some contrary appearances, human beings are capable of great goodness. Nicholas A. Christakis author of Blueprint: The Evolutionary Origins of a Good Society
 
A surprisingly and refreshingly optimistic book, one that deserves a place both on living room and diplomats shelves. Anne-Marie Slaughter, CEO, New America
 
An important, radical book that leaves you hopeful that peace is not a dream and conflict is not inevitable. David Miliband, president and CEO, International Rescue Committee
 
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