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Profiles in Operations Research pp 69–81Cite as

John von Neumann

Part of the International Series in Operations Research & Management Science book series (ISOR,volume 147)

Abstract

The originsand initial scope of Operations Research (OR) evolved from the need to resolve operational military problems during World War II (WWII). OR’s growth and applicability as a new science has come about by its ability to assimilate, adapt, and extend old and new ideas from across a wide range of scientific developments. In particular, the interaction between OR and advances in mid-twentieth century mathematics and computers has proven to be a remarkable occurrence. The mathematician John von Neumann played a central role in these advances. He made seminal and major contributions to game theory, utility theory, stored-program computers, numerical analysis, and Monte Carlo simulation, all of which helped to advance the theory and application of OR.

Keywords

  • Front Wheel
  • Geiger Counter
  • Aberdeen Prove Ground
  • Neutron Diffusion
  • Moore School

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA

    Saul I. Gass

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  1. Saul I. Gass
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Correspondence to Saul I. Gass .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. , School of Management, University at Buffalo, State University, Jacobs Management Center 160, Buffalo, 14260-4000, New York, USA

    Arjang A. Assad

  2. Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of Maryland, Van Munching Hall, College Park, 20742-1915, Maryland, USA

    Saul I. Gass

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Gass, S.I. (2011). John von Neumann. In: Assad, A., Gass, S. (eds) Profiles in Operations Research. International Series in Operations Research & Management Science, vol 147. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6281-2_4

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