Thomas Schelling was an American economist and Nobel laureate known for his work in game theory and strategic behavior. Born in 1921, he contributed significantly to understanding conflict and cooperation in social science, particularly through his analysis of how individuals make decisions in competitive situations. His influential book, The Strategy of Conflict, explores how negotiation and strategy can lead to better outcomes in various scenarios. Schelling's ideas have been applied to diverse fields, including political science, economics, and environmental studies. He is particularly recognized for his insights into deterrence theory during the Cold War, which examined how nations could prevent conflict through the threat of retaliation. His work continues to influence scholars and policymakers today.