Understanding Today’s Asymmetric Conflicts

Understanding Today’s Asymmetric Conflicts

Speaker: Shapiro, J. (Princeton University)

Date: 6 June 2018

Speaker Session Preview

SMA hosted a speaker session presented by Dr. Jacob Shapiro (Princeton University) as a part of its SMA (General) Speaker Series. Dr. Shapiro first discussed his primary observations about asymmetric conflicts, highlighting that the things we previously thought would reduce casualties and alleviate conflict often did not (in fact, they often seemed to make things worse). He also emphasized that every village and valley is different. Dr. Shapiro supported these claims through graphs, which displayed broad trends and micro-data. He explained his model of asymmetric conflict, which involves three parties (government, civilian population, and rebels), and discussed an application of this model by creating a strategic game and illustrating the players’ unique perspectives. To conclude the session, Dr. Shapiro revealed the results derived from his work and explained the strategic implications and importance of his work.

Speaker Session Audio File

Download Dr. Shapiro’s biography and slides