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Philosophy & Social Sciences

Albert Wohlstetter

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Who

Albert Wohlstetter · Philosophy & Social Sciences

What

Strategist and nuclear-deterrence theorist; influential analyst of second-strike stability

When

1913, New York City, United States — 1997, Los Angeles, California, United States

Where

United States

Biography

Albert Wohlstetter is recognized among Jewish contributors to Philosophy & Social Sciences — Strategist and nuclear-deterrence theorist; influential analyst of second-strike stability

How & why

Wohlstetter, from a Jewish family, was among the most influential American nuclear strategists of the Cold War. Working at the RAND Corporation, his 'basing study' showed U.S. bomber forces were vulnerable to a surprise attack and made the case for a survivable second-strike capability, a cornerstone of deterrence theory. His analytical approach shaped generations of defense thinkers.

Sources & external links

Verify and go deeper with these external references.

Source: Jinfo.org — Jews in Political Philosophy & Science

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Contributions & Sources

Strategist and nuclear-deterrence theorist; influential analyst of second-strike stability

1913

Source: Jinfo.org — Jews in Political Philosophy & Science