The Cold War (Person of Interest)

"The Cold War" is the 10th episode of the fourth season of the American television drama series Person of Interest. It is the 78th overall episode of the series and is written by co-executive producer Amanda Segel and directed by Michael Offer. It aired on CBS in the United States and on CTV in Canada on December 16, 2014.

The series revolves around a computer program for the federal government known as "The Machine" that is capable of collating all sources of information to predict terrorist acts and to identify people planning them. A team, consisting of John Reese, Harold Finch and Sameen Shaw follow "irrelevant" crimes: lesser level of priority for the government. However, their security and safety is put in danger following the activation of a new program named Samaritan. In the episode, Samaritan starts going after irrelevant numbers in order to lure the Machine out of hiding. After the Machine refuses to reveal itself, Samaritan decides to amplify the crime in the city. The title refers to the phrase "Cold war", a state of conflict between nations that does not involve direct military action but is pursued primarily through economic and political actions, propaganda, acts of espionage or proxy wars waged by surrogates.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 8.94 million household viewers and gained a 1.3/4 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received highly positive reviews, with critics praising Amy Acker's performance, the writing, ending, and the talk between the Machine and Samaritan.