Persian Gulf Paradox

I was tagged by Zarkoff45 to make a video with a mathematical or philosophical paradox in it. All paradoxes, even the psychological ones implicit in current geo-political affairs, are in a sense philosophical. Thus, I offer the following rather informal paradox by which it seems rational to be irrational.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Philosophy
• Paradox
• Deterrence
• Strategy
• Game Theory
• Iran
• Straits of Hormuz
• Wisdominature7
• Zarkoff45
• Tag

[ParagonProtege]

I don't know if they are isomorphic, but this paradox reminds me of Newcomb's problem.

[wisdominnature7]

@ParagonProtege

Yes, its very similar to Newcomb's problem; as is the game show 'Deal or no Deal'. But this is more dramatic because it might involve shooting :)

[CMob09]

The threat is rational because USA, Israel and the UK will lose the most if the straights are blocked.

Oil is being smuggled out of Iraq, and the Iranian's know blocking the straights this will halt USA and their plans.

If they block the straights USA will have to talk to IRAN, as USA cannot afford another big war.

[CMob09]

You have it wrong about Iran losing trade by blocking the straights..

All Iran's trade is with China and Russia, they have ceased to trade with the west so do not need to use the Straight's of Hormuz.

[Forkroute]

two of the options are irrational - like Catch 22 - never mind what you course of action you chose - your fucked. If you want to get into detail, then Iran should probably chose the option that less "fucks" it. Anyhow I hope they will not get nuclear weapons. I prefer the West with all of its discontents.

[Forkroute]

pleae keep posting. I love your stuff.