In the game of chess,it is a proven fact that either of the three conditions hold:
1)white has a winning strategy
2) black has a winning strategy or
3)either of them can at least force a draw.
It is conjectured that white has a winning strategy.
What is the evidence behind this conjecture (why is 1) favoured wrt the other two



a question on game of chess
It is important to set aside two different discussions. One is what happens with optimal play, and the other is what happens in real games among the chess elite players. Statistics for any period of time show more white wins than black. It is generally accepted that having white is an advantage, even if it is only psychological.


For the real question (perfect play), [this article](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First-move_advantage_in_chess) summarizes very well what is known. The conclusion is that there is a general consensus that the game is drawn with optimal play.


