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The Art of War

Mar 31, 2019

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The Art of War. Sun Tzu. Main Takeaways. The study of Leadership was already underway 2,500 years ago There are many different ways to understand the world These early studies and diverse viewpoints are useful in our own daily lives. Sun TzU.

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The Art of War • Sun Tzu

Main Takeaways • The study of Leadership was already underway 2,500 years ago • There are many different ways to understand the world • These early studies and diverse viewpoints are useful in our own daily lives

Sun TzU • Sun Tzu - Military general whose work has survived over 2,500 years. • Tactical advice maps to a wide variety of situations • Text has influenced leaders from Ancient Chinese Emperors to Napoleon to Western Corporate Executives

Taoism - Tao Te Ching • Ancient Chinese Religion / Philosophy • Key text: Tao Te Ching • Knowing others is wisdom; • Knowing the self is enlightenment • Mastering others requires force; • Mastering the self requires strength; • He who knows he has enough is rich. • What does Taoism seem to value? • Compare/Contrast Tao Te Ching with Art of War. • Book Recommendation: Tao of Pooh

Non-Western worldviews • Example: American Individualist Society vs. Chinese Collectivist Society* *Passage taken from “Teaching English in China,” by Robert Wyss Jr. and Emily A. Thrush

Bringing it home • Let’s all share our Art of War passages!

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World Literature in English

Review of The Art of War by Sun Tzu (translated by Lionel Giles)

I’d bet far more people have heard of this influential Chinese classic than have read it.

The military strategist to whom  The Art of War  is attributed is known in English as “Sun Tzu”, which I’m guessing most people pronounce like “sun zoo”, but which is actually supposed to be something more like “soon dzuh”. (The pinyin is Sun Zi, and the characters are 孙子.)

I’m a poor historian, so it’s hard for me to judge the impact of Sun Tzu’s text either on the battles of his own time or on those fought in the centuries since then. Its impact on the world of contemporary English-language publishing, however, is readily apparent thanks to the proliferation of books that bear titles such as  The Art of War for Executives ,  The Art of War for Small Business , and even  The Art of War for Dating . Surely the work that inspired all these copycats is worth a look.

The edition I read is based on the 1910 translation by Lionel Giles, and contains his notes inserted directly in the text. The notes explain or expand on the advice in more detail or give examples from world history of the situations described, showing how the advice applies in specific instances.

I found the translation suitably dignified but modern enough to sound sensible. The version I read (ISBN 9781444727364, 102 pages) was edited and has a foreword by James Clavell, author of  Shogun  and a series of other long, popular novels set in Asia.

What do the star ratings mean?

Here are some links to free versions of  The Art of War  at gutenberg.org:

• The Art of War , translated and with notes by Lionel Giles (1910)
• The Art of War , translated by Lionel Giles but stripped of added notes (1910)
• The Book of War , translated by Captain E.F. Calthrop (1908) (contains  The Sayings of Wutzu  as well as  The Articles of Suntzu )
• 兵法 (Bīng Fǎ) literally meaning “military tactics” (one of the astonishingly dense-looking Chinese versions)

Click to read my post on The Art of War  over at Asian Books Blog to find out what you need to know to decide whether you should bother, or how to talk about it even if you never do!

Meanwhile, China, realising that sometimes cultural products are famous for being famous, has  attempted to capitalise on  The Art of War  by using its fame as a lure for tourists… and to buttress its image as a cooperative world power. It’s worth a try, I guess.

When and Why I Read  The Art of War

Re-reading this classic for Asian Books Blog.

Genre: non-fiction (Chinese history, military strategy) Date started / date finished:  03-Jul-17 to 14-Jul-17 Length: 102 ISBN: 9781444727364 Originally published in: 2013 (this edition) Amazon link: The Art of War

Home » Blog » Philosophy » The Art of War: 9 Key Lessons, Summary and Review

The Art of War: 9 Key Lessons, Summary and Review

“The Art of War”, one of the oldest and most influential literary works in the world, is a handbook of military strategy that goes beyond the context of battle to become a powerful tool for reflection.

I book addresses tactics and human behavior in the most diverse competitive environments, from business to interpersonal relationships. Read summaries of other very good books here!

Table of Contents

Synopsis of The Art of War

“The Art of War” is a military treatise written by Sun Tzu, a 6th-century BC Chinese general, strategist, and philosopher.

The work presents a philosophy of war for the management of conflicts of any size. Though primarily a handbook of military strategy, Sun Tzu’s lessons have moved beyond the battlefield to become relevant in many spheres of life, including business, sports, diplomacy, and personal relationships.

This book, comprising thirteen chapters, each devoted to an aspect of warfare, has been studied by military leaders, business executives, and politicians throughout history. Buy The Art of War clicking here.

Who was Sun Tzu?

Sun Tzu believed that strategic victory, not violence, was the way to victory.

Sun Tzu, whose real name was Sun Wu, was a general, military strategist, and philosopher who lived in ancient China during the period known as Spring and Autumn. Although many details of his life are uncertain, he is best known for writing “The Art of War”.

His work, which emphasizes the importance of planning, intelligence, communication, discipline, flexibility and the study of the adversary, has influenced leaders and strategists for centuries. Check a summary about the book Ego Is Your Enemy here!

Summary of The Art of War

“The Art of War” is divided into thirteen chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of warfare.

Among the topics addressed are planning, offensive strategy, dispersion, terrain, empty and full, maneuver, variants and espionage. In essence, Sun Tzu argues that the true art of war is not fighting, but winning without fighting.

The book highlights the importance of knowing yourself and your enemy, the need for adaptability and flexibility, the importance of discipline and preparation, and the value of intelligence and espionage. Buy The Art of War clicking here.

Review of The Art of War

Sun Tzu presents his teachings clearly and concisely, with many of his aphorisms becoming well known and widely quoted.

Its emphasis on strategic planning, intelligence, flexibility, and discipline makes it essential reading for anyone involved in competitive or conflictual situations, whether in the military, political, business, or personal spheres. This is indeed a highly recommended book!

“The Art of War” is a profoundly illuminating and influential book that, while written in the context of ancient warfare, remains relevant in modern times. Buy The Art of War clicking here.

9 Key Lessons from the Art of Wa r

Here are some of the main lessons from the work:

1. Know Yourself and Your Enemy: For Sun Tzu, victory is assured when you know both yourself and your opponent.

2. Planning and Strategy: Victory is achieved even before combat, through effective planning and strategy.

3. Flexibility: Being able to adapt to different situations is vital.

4. Deception: Deceiving the enemy can be an effective strategy.

5. Speed ​​and Efficiency: Speed ​​and efficiency are essential in warfare.

6. The importance of Intelligence: Information is a vital resource.

7. Discipline: Discipline is the foundation of any effective army.

8. Saving Resources: The war must be waged in a way that saves resources and avoids a long conflict.

9. Victory without combat: The greatest victory is the one that can be achieved without fighting.

To know more about the great classics, click here to check a summary on Meditations (Marcus Aurelius).

Negative Points of The Art of War

Despite its many virtues, “The Art of War” is not without its critics.

Some readers may find the work dated, given that it was written in a historical and cultural context very different from the current one. Also, some of the advice may seem obvious or simplistic to the modern reader.

However, this is not an impediment to stop reading. Very worth checking out! Check a summary about On The Shortness of Life (Cicerus) here!

Positive Points of The Art of War

“The Art of War” is a timeless work that offers deep insights into strategy and human behavior.

The book is concise and straightforward, making reading enjoyable and easy. In addition, the concepts are presented in a clear and simple way, allowing them to be easily understood and applied in various real-life situations. It is a highly recommended book.

Another positive point is the universality of his teachings, which are relevant not only on the battlefield, but also in business, politics and personal life.

Is The Art of War worth reading?

The book offers a unique insight into strategy and tactics, both on and off the battlefield.

“The Art of War” is definitely worth reading. Despite being written over 2,000 years ago, Sun Tzu’s teachings continue to be relevant in many areas of modern life. So whether you’re a businessman, a leader, a student of history, or simply someone interested in strategy and philosophy, “The Art of War” is essential reading.

In addition, it reads quickly and the principles are presented clearly and concisely, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Buy The Art of War clicking here.

Questions about The Art of War

See some of the main questions about this great work.

What does the book The Art of War teach?

The Art of War book teaches military strategy and leadership principles.

What does The Art of War teach modern managers?

The book teaches modern managers about business strategy, leadership, resource management, and strategic planning.

What does the word Sun Tzu mean?

Sun Tzu is a proper name that does not have a literal translation. It is the name of the author of the book The Art of War.

Why is The Art of War good?

The Art of War is considered good due to its timeless strategies applicable not only to war, but also to many areas of life, including business and leadership.

What is war for Sun Tzu?

For Sun Tzu, war is a strategic competition involving careful planning, knowing the enemy, and maximizing available resources.

How many battles did Sun Tzu win?

There are no accurate historical records of how many battles Sun Tzu won. He is believed to have been a successful general, but specific details are scarce.

What are Sun Tzu’s principles?

Some of Sun Tzu’s principles include knowing yourself and knowing your enemy, avoiding direct confrontation when possible, adapting to circumstances, and using cunning to outsmart the enemy.

How to use The Art of War in everyday life?

The Art of War can be used in everyday life by applying the principles of strategy, careful planning, understanding the environment and harnessing available resources in a variety of situations.

What does Sun Tzu say about leadership?

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of effective leadership in warfare. He highlights the need for a leader to understand his soldiers, inspire them, lead by example, and make sound strategic decisions.

What is the best way to defeat the enemy according to Sun Tzu?

According to Sun Tzu, the best way to defeat the enemy is to defeat him without fighting battles. He stresses the importance of knowing the enemy, exploiting his weaknesses, and using deception tactics to gain victory.

What is Sun Tzu’s quote?

A famous quote by Sun Tzu is: “Know thyself and know thy enemy, and thou shalt win all battles”.

Which commander to use with Sun Tzu?

It’s not clear what you mean by “commander use with Sun Tzu”. Sun Tzu is an author and military strategist, there is no specific “commander” associated with him.

How to cite The Art of War?

To cite The Art of War, you may use the author’s name (Sun Tzu) and the title of the book in italics: Sun Tzu. The art of war.

How can Sun Tzu’s book The Art of War influence the market?

The Art of War book can influence the marketplace by providing insight into competitive strategies, effective leadership, resource management, and strategic decision making.

Who read The Art of War?

The Art of War has been read by many people over the centuries, including military leaders, strategists, businessmen, academics, and history and philosophy enthusiasts.

What does it take to win a war?

Winning a war requires effective strategy, competent leadership, adequate resources, intelligence, discipline, popular support, and adaptability to circumstances.

Why did Sun Tzu write The Art of War?

Sun Tzu is believed to have written The Art of War to share his knowledge and experiences as a military strategist, offering guidance on how to achieve victory in conflict situations.

Who was China’s greatest general?

Zhuge Liang, also known as Kongming, is considered one of the greatest generals in ancient China. He was a skilled strategist and served as a military adviser during the Three Kingdoms period.

When able pretend to be unable?

“When able, pretend to be unable” is a strategy mentioned in The Art of War. It means that, in certain situations, it is advantageous to hide your true abilities and intentions in order to deceive the enemy.

How old is The Art of War?

The Art of War is over 2,500 years old. It is believed to have been written by Sun Tzu around the 5th century BC, during the Warring States period in China.

Who was the greatest war strategist in the world?

There is no absolute consensus on who was the greatest war strategist in the world, as this is subjective and depends on the historical context. Some notable military leaders include Napoleon Bonaparte, Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan.

What is a war strategy?

A war strategy is a plan of action designed to achieve military objectives. It involves identifying enemy strengths and weaknesses, effective use of resources, and tactics to gain victory.

What is the difference between Machiavelli’s The Art of War and Sun Tzu’s?

Sun Tzu’s Art of War focuses on strategic principles and leadership. Machiavelli’s book The Prince discusses politics and power, with an emphasis on human nature and the gaining and maintenance of power.

What are Sun Tzu’s main teachings on the subject of business?

Some of Sun Tzu’s main teachings for business include the importance of strategy, market and competition knowledge, effective resource management, leadership, and adapting to changes in the business environment.

How to train your leaders?

Leadership training involves providing relevant knowledge and skills, practical guidance, opportunities for personal and professional development, and fostering an environment that encourages leadership and growth.

How to inspire leaders?

Inspiring leaders requires demonstrating a positive leadership example, sharing an inspiring vision, building trust, encouraging active participation, providing opportunities for growth, and recognizing and valuing your contributions.

Is it better to have the enemy close by?

Having the enemy nearby can have advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation. It can enable more effective surveillance, make it easier to monitor activity, and help you respond quickly to potential threats, but it can also increase risk and stress.

What is the main message of The Art of War book?

The main message of The Art of War is that victory is achieved through strategic knowledge, careful planning, effective leadership, and adaptability to circumstances.

Where does the story of The Art of War take place?

The Art of War book does not tell a specific story, but offers general advice and strategies for warfare. There is no specific location where the story of the book takes place.

What is the purpose of the art of war?

The aim of the art of war is to achieve victory in conflict situations through the strategic use of resources, combat tactics and effective leadership.

The Art of War teaches modern managers about business strategy, leadership, managing resources, adapting to market changes, and making strategic decisions to achieve competitive success.

What did Sun Tzu stand for?

Sun Tzu advocated the importance of strategy, knowledge of the enemy, adaptability, effective leadership, and wise use of resources to achieve victory.

A famous quote by Sun Tzu is: “Know your enemy and know yourself; if you have a hundred battles to fight, you will win a hundred times.”

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of effective leadership in warfare, stressing soldiers’ understanding, inspiration, example, and strategic decision-making.

Sun Tzu is believed to have written The Art of War to share his strategic knowledge and offer guidance on how to achieve victory in conflict situations.

There are no accurate historical records of how many battles Sun Tzu won. Although he is considered a successful military strategist, specific details about his victories are scarce.

What are Sun Tzu’s main teachings regarding business?

Sun Tzu’s key teachings regarding business include the importance of strategy, understanding the market and competition, using resources effectively, competent leadership, and adapting to changes in the business environment.

How do Sun Tzu’s principles apply to business strategy?

Sun Tzu’s principles can be applied to business strategy through careful planning, knowledge of the market and competitors, adapting to changes in the business environment, and effective leadership to achieve competitive success.

What was Sun Tzu’s contribution to administration?

Sun Tzu’s contribution to management is the application of his strategic and leadership principles in business contexts, providing valuable insights into effective management, strategic planning and gaining competitive advantage.

What is the importance of preparation and planning according to Sun Tzu?

For Sun Tzu, preparation and planning are key to success in any endeavor, including war. They make it possible to anticipate challenges, take advantage of opportunities and maximize the effectiveness of actions.

What are the 4 key elements in business strategy?

The 4 fundamental elements in business strategy, according to Sun Tzu, are the mission (objective), the climate (environment), the terrain (resources) and the leadership (management).

“When able, pretend to be unable” is a strategy mentioned by Sun Tzu, who emphasizes the importance of hiding skills and intentions to deceive the enemy and create tactical advantage.

How to create a business strategy?

To create a business strategy, it is necessary to define a clear vision, analyze the market and the competition, identify strengths and weaknesses, set goals and objectives, and develop a consistent action plan to achieve them.

What does Sun Tzu’s book say?

Sun Tzu’s book The Art of War discusses military strategy, leadership principles, and combat tactics, offering insights into how to achieve victory in conflict situations.

When did Sun Tzu live?

Sun Tzu lived during the Warring States period in China, around the 5th century BC.

When did Sun Tzu write The Art of War?

Sun Tzu is believed to have written The Art of War during the 5th century BC, during the Warring States period in China.

What is Sun Tzu’s theory of war?

Sun Tzu’s theory of war is based on principles such as the importance of strategy, knowing the enemy and oneself, adapting to circumstances, and using resources effectively to achieve victory.

What is the true purpose of war according to the book The Art of War?

According to the book The Art of War, the true objective of war is to achieve victory with as little loss and conflict as possible. Victory is achieved through smart strategies and efficient use of available resources.

Vítor Costa

PhD in Polymer Science and Technology. Loves to read and study about sciences, psychology, philosophy and other subjects.

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In this March 25, 2015, file photo, U.S. Army soldiers from the 25th Infantry Division's 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team and South Korean soldiers take their position during a demonstration of the combined arms live-fire exercise as a part of the annual joint military exercise Foal Eagle between South Korea and the United States at the Rodriquez Multi-Purpose Range Complex in Pocheon, north of Seoul, South Korea.

Analysis & Opinions - The Irish Times

• David H. Petraeus

Sun Tzu’s classic work is a fascinating mixture of the poetic and the pragmatic

The Art of War  has rightly become one of the world’s most influential books on military strategy. Written well over two thousand years ago in China, but not translated into English until the beginning of the twentieth century, it is now studied in military academies around the globe. Indeed, its relevance has been reconfirmed in the twenty-first century.

For Sun Tzu, and for any strategist, of course, the best strategy is the one that delivers victory without fighting. “Troops that bring the enemy to heel without fighting at all - that is ideal,” he advised. Those who soldiered during the Cold War - or any war, for that matter - can certainly attest to the wisdom of Sun Tzu’s observation; however, those who remained in uniform beyond 9/11 would caution that, unfortunately, it is not always possible to prevail against one’s enemies without resort to arms.

Indisputably as true today as in Sun Tzu’s time is the necessity for understanding the enemy - his plans, dispositions, strengths, and weaknesses. “Know your enemy and know yourself, and fight a hundred battles without danger,” Sun Tzu observed. “Know yourself but not your enemy, and win one battle but lose another.”

As we reminded ourselves repeatedly while developing plans for operations in Iraq , Afghanistan , and elsewhere in the Middle East and Central Asia, the enemy does, indeed, “get a vote,” and we always needed to appreciate how he might react to our operations. Preparing for a variety of enemy responses, not just the most likely, has to be a central part of any planning process.

Also of great importance to Sun Tzu was understanding the terrain, with all its variations and prospective uses, better than the enemy does. This is a tall order, especially when fighting on foreign soil and perhaps even on the enemy’s own turf. We certainly revalidated this reality in Iraq and Afghanistan, which featured substantial urban areas as well as broad deserts, heavily vegetated river valleys, and rugged hills and mountains. And while we frequently observed that the human terrain was the decisive terrain, the physical terrain and manmade objects often dictated how we and our partners on the ground were able to engage, secure, and serve the people - tasks that were of central importance in the irregular warfare of the post- 9/11 era.

Another key observation of Sun Tzu was the significance of continually adjusting tactics and avoiding predictability. As he noted, “you do not win in battle the same way twice.” Repeating the same play over and over again can, in fact, result in the kind of setback experienced in the ‘Black Hawk Down’ incident in Somalia in 1993, and we sought to be keenly sensitive to that in the post- 9/11 wars.

Sun Tzu’s observation also highlights the importance of constant learning on the battlefield. As we noted in the counterinsurgency field manual published in late 2006, the side that learns the fastest often prevails. Recognizing that, when I was privileged to command the efforts in Iraq and in Afghanistan, we had monthly sessions to discuss and evaluate emerging lessons that needed to be learned organisationally by making refinements to our campaign plan, policies, and procedures.

Concealment and deception

And at these monthly gatherings, each division commander offered two lessons or initiatives he thought would be of relevance to the other commanders present. Fostering a culture of learning in a military unit is hugely important.

Sun Tzu also highlighted the importance of concealment and deception, a vital part of his thinking. “The most refined form to give your troops is being without form or invisible. If they are invisible, a well-concealed spy cannot spy on them, and a wise man cannot make plans against them.”

Even in the battles in which we were engaged in the post-9/11 campaigns, hiding intentions until the last possible minute often enabled at least tactical surprise, and that awareness very much informed the way our operations were conducted during the Surges in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sun Tzu clearly appreciated the value of wars speedily under-taken and quickly concluded. Prolonged wars are, needless to say, costly and drain soldiers of their staying power.

“I have heard of war being waged with foolish haste,” he noted, “but have never seen a war skilfully prolonged. No state has ever gained from protracted war. Given the nature of war, speed is essential.”

Those are, again, very wise words, though the experiences of Iraq, Syria , and Afghanistan show how hard it is to “operationalise” them in the contemporary struggle against extremism that appears to be generational in nature, not a fight to be won by taking a particular hill and planting the flag. Perhaps an update of those observations would include a caution to ensure that if a war is to be prolonged, the strategy for it has to be “sustainable” in terms of the expenditure of “blood and treasure”.

And it is heartening to see approaches evolve in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan in which our forces (modest in size compared to the numbers deployed during the Surge years) are training, equipping, advising, assisting, and enabling host nation forces, but in which the host nation forces are doing the fighting on the front lines. That makes lengthy endeavours much more sustainable than when we have very large deployments and are also on the front lines.

Sun Tzu’s emphasis on the importance of the wartime commander is also critical. “A general is the buttress of the state,” he observed. “The general who understands war is master of the people’s fate, and oversees the safe keeping of the state.” Timeless too is Sun Tzu’s appreciation that commanding officers and their forces must see eye to eye. “If your upper and lower ranks want the same things, you will win.”

Leaders of the wars of the past sixteen years certainly can underscore the importance of leaders at all levels understanding the intent of the overall commander and being able to translate big ideas at the top level into tactical actions by what we often termed “strategic lieutenants and sergeants”, so identified because tactical actions at their levels could often have strategic con-sequences. It was to facilitate such understanding at all levels, in fact, that I published, and distributed to the entire chain of command, counterinsurgency guidance for both Iraq and Afghanistan when I led the coalitions there, a practice that has typically been continued.

Strange tactics

Sun Tzu had unusual insight into the potential of combining action by regular and irregular troops and also the conduct of regular and irregular warfare - what he described as unorthodox or strange tactics. He was ahead of his time in this, and his think-ing is still very valid in today’s wars. “In doing battle . . . you achieve victory by irregular means. So if you are good at irregular warfare you will be as inexhaustible as the sky and the earth.”

All those who have been engaged in the wars of the past sixteen years have had to confront irregular warfare - and, to varying degrees, to conduct it as well. In particular, our forces have blended and integrated various types of special operations forces with general purpose forces in ways seldom seen before. At one point during the Surge in Afghanistan, for example, I directed attachment of two general purpose infantry battalions to the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force to “thicken” that element with an infantry squad per special forces team, thereby enabling the task force to cover twice as many local police locations as would have been possible without the augmentation.

And, as mentioned above, in recent years, we have been fighting “through others” - advising and enabling host nation forces doing the frontline fighting, rather than engaging in that fighting ourselves.

Even Sun Tzu’s chapter headings - Calculations, Starting a Battle, Planning an Attack, Form, Circumstance, The Empty and the Solid, Armies Contending, Nine Variations, The Army on the Move, Forms of Terrain, Nine Terrains, Attack with Fire, and Using Spies - address essential issues that are as relevant today as they were two thousand years ago.

In fact, each chapter brings to mind numerous lessons learned - or relearned - since 9/11. And many of the ideas of enduring relevance are reflected in the US Army and Marine Corps Field Manual on Counterinsurgency, the drafting of which I oversaw in 2006.

Any examination of the great field commanders over time, individuals such as Alexander the Great, Belisarius, Napoleon, Wellington, Grant, Sherman, Patton, and Ridgway, among many others, reveals that victory and success invariably have been achieved by adherence to the principles discussed in Sun Tzu’s Art of War . It is thus very timely to have this new edition published now, in the midst of what likely will be a generational struggle against extremism.

“Rushing like the wind; slow-stirring like the forest; consuming like fire; immobile like a mountain. They are as hard to know as shadows. They move like rolling thunder . . .’’ This is not the way troop movements are described in military manuals; rather, these are Sun Tzu’s vivid words, and they reflect Sun Tzu’s powerful command of language and imagery.

Sun Tzu’s classic work is, in short, a fascinating mixture of the poetic and the pragmatic, and every bit as relevant now as when it was written.

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In Pursuit of Meaning

Book Review: The Art of War – Sun Tzu

“The supreme act of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting” – Sun Tzu.

Fascinating book, more like a guide to perfection of war. War has been and still is the result of every conflict of humanity. It is quite amazing how advanced and way ahead of his time Sun Tzu was! To have a guide on how to defeat the enemy and for this guide to still be relevant in today’s day and age, that itself is an enormous advantage back in the day!

The book covers, most elegantly, the strategies that one ought to bear in mind for the destruction of the enemy. From the 9 different types of ground, using elements such as fire, earth, water and wind to your advantage, how to trick the enemy with spies (all warfare is based on deception), with perfect manoeuvres, the timely use of a bluff or feigning stupidity, the implementation of the utmost discipline to your soldiers and keeping them satisfied with rewards, the incredible importance that the commander-in-chief’s behaviour has on the army and on victory or defeat, how the mindset of your army changes everything, the use of birds for knowing if an enemy has occupied a certain region, if an army is doomed to certain death, their resolve with be maximum “when there is no escape, soldiers will prefer death to flight.”

Above all, rapidity – that is the essence of war. Taking advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness and making your way by unexpected routes, attacking undefended or less defended spots. Like the thunder which is heard before you have time to stop your ears against it. Plus, long delays and long wars is often associated with disaster, with the exhaustion of supplies and decay of the mindset of the solider.

The Art of War is a book attributed to Sun Tzu, who is revered as a legendary historical military figure, as well as a philosopher, and whose real name is Sun Wu. The name Sun Tzu is actually an honorary title meaning “Master Sun”.

Although the historicity of Sun Tzu is doubtable, and the book may very well have been a compilation of several scholars – we still have the privilege of possessing one of the first and most profound books ever written on strategy and war, whose principles are still used to this day due to the their importance.

The Art of War is not only concerned with modern warfare, but also spreads and influences the mindset of people in politics, games, and business.

It presents a sort of philosophy, a state of mind or psychology for managing conflicts and winning battles. It is closely tied to the philosophy of Taoism, which follows the Tao or “The Way”,  the principle of the universe to which everything is connected. It is about Yin and Yang, life and death, action and inaction – which is why the highest victory is one attained without engaging in a fight.

Main Takeaways

Chapter 1. Laying Plans

The soldier must be in complete accord with the ruler, regardless of life and death, undismayed by danger. The commander-in-chief’s behaviour can signify victory or defeat: he must be wise and benevolent, but also sincere and strict.

All warfare is based on deception. If an army is strong it must appear weak, if it is weak, it must appear strong. Feigning stupidity and the timely use of a bluff can greatly increase the chance of victory.

Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating to the enemy’s purpose.

“The opportunity to secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.”

Chapter 2. Waging War

War must be swift. Rapidity is the essence of war. Long delays are associated with disaster, exhausting all the supplies, leading to hunger and the decay of the will to fight of an army.

Therefore, take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness and make your way by unexpected routes, attacking undefended or weak spots. Like the thunder which is heard before the flash of a lightning bolt.

For this, the ruler must implement the utmost discipline, an iron will, into his soldiers and keep them satisfied with rewards, essential for the motivation of the army and for having a purpose of defeating the enemy.

Chapter 3. Attack by Stratagem

The skilful leader subdues the enemy’s troops without any fighting, and he captures their cities without laying siege to them. The enemy should be eliminated strategically, leaving the civilians and city untouched and the men will be rewarded with all the enemy’s supplies.

To win, you must know when to fight and when not to fight and how to handle both superior and inferior forces. Great results can be achieved with small forces.

If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you’ll succumb in every battle.

Chapter 4. Tactical dispositions

Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated.

Chapter 5. Energy

In battle, there are no more than two methods of attack: the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of manoeuvres.

The direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory, attacking the enemy’s flank or rear.

Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline; simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength.

The energy developed by good fighting men is as the momentum of a round stone rolled down a mountain.

Chapter 6. Weak points and strong

By figuring out the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy, you can be sure of succeeding in your attacks.

Sun Tzu was no believer in frontal attacks, but rather in a combination of surprise tactics such as attacking the weak points of the enemy’s camp,  splitting up the enemy’s reinforcements as to weaken their strength in numbers, and luring him so as to find out his vulnerable spots.

In essence, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak.

Chapter 7. Manoeuvring

The hardship of forced marches are often more painful than the dangers of battle. Fighting with an exhausted army is a sure way to defeat, therefore – they must be only used when intended for surprise attacks within short distances.

Attack the spirit of the enemy’s army while your army’s spirit is at its highest. This is an effective way to victory.  

“Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.”

One thing to mention is not interfere with an army that is returning home. For a man whose heart is set on returning home will fight to the death against any attempt to bar his way, making it too dangerous an opponent to tackle.

8. Variation of tactics

The wise leader considers both advantages and disadvantages and turning a disadvantage into an advantage.

If surrounded by enemies with the only objective of retreating, the adversary will pursue and crush the army. It would be far better to encourage the men to counter-attack and use the advantage thus gained to free them from the enemy’s toils.

The art of war teaches us not to rely on the likelihood of the enemy’s not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him.

Sun Tzu explains that a general is not to be careless with the welfare of his troops, but rather to emphasise the danger of sacrificing any important military advantage to the immediate comfort of his men.

For there is no instance of a nation benefitting from prolonged warfare. Therefore, the profession of arms requires a combination of hardness and tenderness.

Chapter 9. The army on the march

Be aware of your surroundings. If faced with mountains, do not climb heights in order to fight. After crossing a river, you should get far away from it and deliver your attack when half the army get across. If forced to fight in marshes, have water and grass near you and get your back where there are trees, for the ground is less likely to be treacherous.

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an enemy ambush beneath the spot. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming. And at the same time, if birds gather on any spot, it is unoccupied. This is a useful fact to bear in mind when, for instance, the enemy has secretly abandoned their camp.

Chapter 10. Terrain

With respect to terrain, high and sunny places are advantageous not only for their strategic spot, but also because they are immune from disastrous floods.

If we know that our own men are in a condition to attack but are unaware that the enemy is not open to attack, we have only gone halfway towards victory.

If we know that the enemy is open to attack but are unaware that our own men are not in a condition to attack, we have only gone halfway towards victory.

And if we know that the enemy is open to attack, and also know that our men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the nature of the ground makes fighting impracticable, we have still gone only halfway towards victory.

Chapter 11. The nine situations

The art of war recognises different varieties of ground. One which is of great importance is contentious ground, that which if occupied, gives great advantage to either side. So, those in possession of it have the advantage in battle over the other side and victory will be assured.

In A.D. 532, Emperor Shen-Wu was surrounded by a great army, with his force being much smaller. Instead of trying to escape, he made orders to block all exits. As soon as his army saw that there was nothing for it but to conquer or die, their spirits rose to an extraordinary pitch of exaltation, charging with such ferocity that they defeated their enemy.

“Plunge your army into desperate straits and it will come off in safety, place it in a deadly peril and it will survive.”

In other words, throw your soldiers into positions from where there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight.

One of the most brilliant battles was carried out by general Han Xin of the Han dynasty in 204 BC. He detached two thousand horsemen from his army to hide in narrow passages, everyone carrying their flags. Then, he confronted the enemy with his men – while in battle, the horsemen made their move to the enemy’s base, tearing up their flags and replacing them with their own flags, when the enemy returned to their base, the sight of these flags struck them with terror. Convinced that their king had been overpowered, they broke up in wild disorder. Then from both sides, they were attacked and defeated.

The skilful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan (a type of snake). To strike at its head and be attacked by its tail, to strike at its tail and be attacked by its head, to strike at the middle and be attacked by both head and tail.

Chapter 12. Attack by fire

Another important attack is using fire. The prime object of attacking with fire is to throw the enemy into confusion. When starting a fire near the enemy’s camp, it must be done so on the side facing the wind for it to spread faster.

Chapter 13. The use of spies

Espionage was a common practice, since what enables victory is foreknowledge. That is, knowledge of the enemy’s dispositions, and what he means to do.

However, it is impossible to obtain trustworthy spies unless they are properly paid for their expenses. Hence one must maintain an intimate relation with spies, more than the rest of the army. And none should be more rewarded than the spies, in order to keep the secrets, which have the power of gaining a quick and effective victory.

Spies can be obtained from your own men or your enemy’s men, offering them handsome rewards in return for valuable information. In this way, you will be able to find out the state of affairs in the enemy’s city. Thereby gaining knowledge of the enemy.

Spies are a most important element in war, because on them depends an army’s ability to move. An army without spies is like a man without ears or eyes.

The different measures suited to the varieties of ground, the expediency of aggressive or defensive tactics, and the fundamental laws of human nature, are of vital importance in the Art of War.

Sun Tzu ultimately emphasised the purpose of war to give way to peace and harmony within the society.

“In peace prepare for war, in war prepare for peace. The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death , a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence under no circumstances can it be neglected.” – Sun Tzu

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5 thoughts on “ Book Review: The Art of War – Sun Tzu ”

I found chapter 13 to be an interesting chapter as we generally think of spies in a negative light. But they can help win wars without the fighting. I have used that chapter to teach how empathy works as a “spy” to give us insight into the mind of others and allow us to see how we can help them.

That’s fascinating!! So true, empathy gives us access to the other person’s emotions. Thanks for the comment!

The first non military, plain language Bing-fa. https://shibumimanagementcanada.wordpress.com/2019/05/11/praise-for-the-school-of-sun-tzu/ Conveying the meaning and intent of the original Art of War by Sun Tzu.

• Pingback: Book Review: The Art of War – Sun Tzu — Eternalised | Vermont Folk Troth

Hi greeat reading your blog

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Book Review of The Art of War by Sun Tzu

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Genre : Humanities Author : Sun Tzu Title : The Art of War ( Buy the Book )

Table of Contents

Perhaps the greatest warfare novel written, The Art of War , is believed to have been written by Chinese military official, Sun Tzu, around 500 B.C. However, historians continue to debate the authority of the book as well as the very existence of Sun Tzu himself. The novel, a relic of Chinese history, was only recently introduced to Western culture when it was translated first into French and later English in the 20 th century.

Regardless of how the book came to be, The Art of War has fascinated great military minds and common men through its short proverbial literature. Sun Tzu’s book makes for a compelling and philosophical read, as its narrative is designed to provide counsel regarding internal traits related to the General, as well as external strategies and decisions made by the General in order to achieve victory over the enemy.

In addition to the commentary surrounding the qualities of the ideal General, Sun Tzu alludes to the crucial role the General plays in the State. He calls him the “ the arbiter of the people’s fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril. ”

Thus, the duty and responsibility of the General is not simply to win battles, but he determines the outcome of the State’s destiny with his every decision. The importance of his role is not to be taken lightly.

The proverbs from the Art of War can be grouped into two main categories:

• Characteristics and traits of the great General
• Keys to achieving victory in warfare

Under the description of the great General, Sun Tzu stresses the following critical qualities necessary to become successful: Awareness of Situations and Natural Surroundings, Awareness of Self and Enemy, and the specific traits of Cleverness and Wisdom.

With regard to Awareness of Situations and Natural Environment, Sun Tzu introduces the five constant factors that should be considered when observing the conditions and landscape of the field of war. These constants are:

• The Moral Law: that which causes people to be in complete accord with the ruler so they will follow their ruler regardless of their circumstances, undismayed by any danger
• Heaven: signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons; all things beyond human control and manipulation
• Earth: distances, great and small, danger and security, open ground and narrow passes; the chances of life and death
• The Commander: the General who stands for virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, and sternness
• Method and Discipline: marshaling of the army in proper subdivisions, rank, as well as maintenance of roads for supply and military expenditures – practical considerations

Sun Tzu believes these are the five criteria whereby the great General groups his thoughts and observations with respect to the field of battle, leading him to intentionally develop strategies and tactics for the upcoming war. All decisions in warfare should be made with careful regard and consideration to each of these factors. It is interesting to note these constants are a combination of both physical and mental characteristics, contrary to the popular misconception that warfare is merely a physical match of strength and firepower.

In light of the quality of Awareness of Self and Enemy, Sun Tzu lists seven questions the General should consider when making comparisons between his own force and the enemy. Sun Tzu states victory or defeat can be predetermined by the answers to these seven considerations.

These questions of comparison compel the General to develop an in-depth understanding of the force at his command, as well as the enemy army.

• Which of the two sovereigns is imbued with the Moral Law?
• Which of the two generals has the most ability?
• With whom lies the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?
• On which side is discipline most rigorously enforced?
• Which army is stronger?
• On which side are officers and men more highly trained?
• In which army is there the greater constancy both in reward and punishment?

“Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”– Sun Tzu

Arguably one of the most famous quotes regarding military tactics, ‘All warfare is based on deception’ highlights the significance of cleverness and cunning necessary for success.

Although these qualities would be ideal throughout the army ranks, it is of vital importance for the General to possess these attributes, but to also nurture and develop these skills in the army at large. Sun Tzu encourages the General to pretend to be weak so that the enemy may grow arrogant.

The true mark of a clever General is that he imposes his will on the enemy but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him. This strategy is the height of cleverness and a sure road to victory. In concurrence with the appearance of weakness, holding out traps with which to entice the enemy and feigning disorder and lack of unity is promoted.

“Scheme so as to discover his plans and likelihood of their success. Rouse him and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.” – Sun Tzu

Before elaborating on the paths to attain victory, Sun Tzu defines true victory which is to capture the enemy’s country whole and intact, not to shatter and destroy the enemy’s army and country.

“…supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.” – Sun Tzu

The reason for this is that the enemy’s troops and supplies can be used to support the conquering army, augmenting one’s own strength. In addition to the capturing of the enemy, the ‘supreme excellence’ is to break the enemy without engaging in warfare.

This proverb also emphasizes the significance of cleverness and wisdom in accomplishing victory through means outside of direct military encounters. The General’s purpose should be to attain victory, not wage lengthy and costly campaigns, out of personal spite or revenge.

Sun Tzu states the highest form of leadership is to first subvert the enemy’s plans and schemes; the second alternative is to prevent unity of the enemy’s forces; the next best option is to attack the enemy’s army in the field; and the worst plan of action of all is to lay siege to walled cities.

Sun Tzu states there are five essentials to victory:

• He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight
• He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces
• He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks
• He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared
• He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign

“Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete.” – Sun Tzu

INTRODUCTION

The Art of War is perhaps the most influential manual concerning the ancient tactics of warfare ever written. Historians continue to debate whether the classic was written by a Chinese military official named Sun Tzu or if Sun Tzu even existed.

Those who refute his existence argue that, had such a brilliant military mind really lived, more would have been recorded regarding his background and conquests in Chinese history. Historians who claim Sun Tzu did exist believe he was in the service of the King Ho-lu of Wu, one of the ancient Chinese kingdoms, but very little is known about his military exploits outside of The Art of War .

Some historians think Sun Tzu did not, in fact, rise to the rank of general in the Chinese military due to the lack of historical evidence of his existence, and the opinion that such talented individuals usually do not rise above certain military ranks due to their genius. The reason such individuals would often not rise above this rank was that the emperor would feel threatened by their power and cunning.

Other historians believe The Art of War was written by a collection of other individuals within the military around approximately the same time Sun Tzu may have lived; while additional scholars think he was one of these contributors.

The military manual is believed to have been written around 500 B.C, a time known as The Warring States Period in China, when the kingdoms of Chu, Han, Qi, Qin, Wei, Yan, and Zhao were repeatedly in conflict with each other for control of the land.

Throughout this historical period, there were many advancements, including the shift from predominately chariot armies to organized armies consisting of primarily infantry and some cavalry, as well as the development of great literary works that became the basis for Chinese religious and social beliefs in the following years.

The main philosophical schools of thought at the time were Taoism and Confucianism, although the philosophy of Legalism was the central governing body under which the Qin Emperors ruled.

Although the book garnered great respect in Eastern traditions, its introduction into Western cultures occurred in 1782, when a Jesuit missionary, Father Amiot, translated the book into French.

However, the first English translation is less than one hundred years old and became widely known when Captain E.F. Calthrop published his version in 1905. Since then, various translators and historians (most notably James Clavell in 1983) have updated the translation, resulting in a more comprehensive version, which is read extensively today.

The proverbs from The Art of War can be grouped into two main categories:

• The characteristics and traits of the great General, and
• The keys to achieving victory in warfare. Sun Tzu’s book makes for a compelling and philosophical read, as its narrative is designed to provide counsel regarding internal traits related to the General, as well as external strategies and decisions made by the General in order to achieve victory over the enemy. In the book, Sun Tzu continuously references the “General” as the quintessential military leader and describes the attributes and leadership skills that he should possess.

THE TRAITS OF THE GREAT GENERAL

“The natural formation of the country is the soldier’s best ally; but a power of estimating the adversary, of controlling the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating difficulties, dangers, and distances, constitutes the test of a great general. He who knows these things, and in fighting puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated.” – Sun Tzu

In The Art of War , Sun Tzu describes the role and importance of the General alluding to him as “the arbiter of the people’s fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril.”

The General is the “bulwark of the State; if the bulwark is complete at all points, the State will be strong; if the bulwark is defective, the State will be weak.”

The business of the General is to “be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order” ; and to “muster his host and bring it into danger.” Sun Tzu’s description of a great General and his leadership traits spans the entire length of The Art of War and is a recurring theme in his proverbs regarding warfare strategies.

The main traits of the successful General can be grouped into the following categories: Awareness of Situations and Natural Surroundings, Awareness of Self and Enemy, and the specific traits of Cleverness and Wisdom.

AWARENESS OF SITUATIONS AND NATURAL SURROUNDINGS

The Art of War begins with perhaps one of the most recognizable phrases written regarding warfare: “The art of war is of vital importance to the State. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected.” Beginning with this statement, Sun Tzu outlines the purpose and rationale behind heeding his wise words.

The book immediately introduces the five constant factors that should be considered when observing the conditions and situations of the field of war. These constants are:

• The Moral Law: that which causes people to be in complete accord with their ruler so they will follow their ruler regardless of their lives, undismayed by any danger
• Heaven: signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons – all things beyond human control and manipulation
• Earth: distances, great and small, danger and security, open ground and narrow passes; the odds of life and death
• The Commander: the general who stands for virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, and sternness

Sun Tzu believes these are the five criteria whereby great generals group their thoughts and observations with respect to the field of battle leading them to intentionally develop strategies and tactics for the upcoming war.

All decisions in warfare should be made with careful regard and consideration to each of these factors. It is interesting to note these constants are a combination of both physical and mental characteristics, which is contrary to the popular misconception that warfare is merely a physical match of strength and firepower.

Along with these criteria, Sun Tzu elaborates extensively on the physical conditions present on the field of battle and how those dictate strategy.

These are conditions governed by Heaven and Earth and are beyond the control of the General. They are factors that cannot be changed – they can only be adapted and twisted to the General’s advantage.

Examples of these physical situations created by Earth include the nine varieties of ‘ground,’ and situations to be recognized and utilized by the great General:

• Dispersive Ground: ground which is considered as fighting in one’s own territory – ‘home turf’
• Facile Ground: situation in which an army has penetrated into hostile territory but not to a great distance
• Contentious Ground: ground in which possession imports great advantage to either side
• Open Ground: where each side has the liberty of movement
• Intersecting Highways: ground which forms the key to three contiguous states so that he who occupies it first has most of the Empire at his command
• Serious Ground: a situation in which an army has penetrated into the heart of a hostile country leaving a number of fortified cities in its rear
• Difficult Ground: ground which is difficult to traverse: mountain forests, rugged land, and marshes
• Hemmed in Ground: ground reached through narrow gorges so that a small number of the enemy would suffice to crush a large body of men
• Desperate Ground: ground in which an army can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of the geography/topography and physical conditions that play a factor in the method of determining the proper manner in which to conduct the battle by stating: “how to make the best of both strong and weak-that is a question involving the proper use of ground.”

Thus, the skillful General must observe the natural surroundings upon surveying the field of battle, and his duty is to develop a battle strategy based upon these factors that will be advantageous to his army.

While an understanding of the situation and natural landscape is of great importance to the General in preparing tactics, he must “be able to turn his knowledge to practical account” as Sun Tzu stresses in the development of the steps in his military method.

The order of Sun Tzu’s military methods proceeds in chronological order as follows: Measurement, Estimation of Quantity, Calculation, Balancing of Chances, and finally Victory. Each of these dimensions of warfare builds upon the preceding one making Measurement, which consists of observations based upon the Earth element of the five constants mentioned earlier, the base on which Victory is built.

Thus, the gravity of making observations regarding nature and situational advantages cannot be overstated because everything else critical to warfare is built on the basis of an understanding of the natural environment.

AWARENESS OF SELF AND ENEMY

In this proverb, Sun Tzu places great value on the knowledge and awareness the General must possess with respect to understanding his army and the enemy. It is interesting to note that Sun Tzu does not mention the outcome of warfare if the General knows the enemy but not himself.

With respect to the opening passage, Sun Tzu lists seven questions the General should consider when making comparisons between his own force and the enemy. Sun Tzu states victory or defeat can be predetermined by the answers to these seven considerations. These questions of comparison compel the General to develop an in-depth understanding of the force at his command, as well as the enemy army.

• With whom lie the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?

On the topic of awareness of his own army, Sun Tzu advises the General on the treatment of his soldiers.

He encourages the General not to punish his troops before they have grown attached or acquainted with him or else they will not prove submissive – a trait of critical importance in warfare and which emphasizes a personal relationship with his troops.

However, the General should also enforce the punishments upon his soldiers once they have grown attached or they will become undisciplined in battle. Sun Tzu believes soldiers should be treated in the first instance with humanity but still kept under control through iron discipline – earning the General the respect and command of his men.

Also, Sun Tzu commands the General to “regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.” Therefore, the task of the General is to walk the fine line between treating his soldiers with kindness and mercy, while commanding their respect and obedience to his orders in war.

It is up to the General’s discernment when to respond with encouraging words or punishment when soldiers are out of line. These behaviors strengthen the Moral Law that unites and connects the bonds the General has with his forces.

Sun Tzu concludes the treatment of soldiers with this statement: “If, however, you are indulgent but unable to make your authority felt; kind-hearted, but unable to enforce your commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling disorder: then your soldiers must be likened to spoilt children; they are useless for any practical purpose.”

In addition to the knowledge and handling of his soldiers, there are six calamities to which an army can be exposed for which the General is primarily responsible. These consequences are the result of the General not being in tune with, and unaware of, the temperament and situations within his own army. The six calamities are:

• Flight: occurs when, other conditions being equal, one force is hurled against another ten times its size
• Insubordination: occurs when the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak
• Collapse: occurs when the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak
• Ruin: occurs when the higher officers are angry and insubordinate and, upon meeting the enemy, wage war on their own account disregarding the General’s commands
• Utter Disorganization: occurs when the General is weak and without authority; when his orders are not clear and distinct, and the ranks are formed in a haphazard manner
• Rout: occurs when the General is unable to estimate the enemy’s strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, and neglects to place his skilled veteran warriors in the front rank

By highlighting the catastrophic effects of war, Sun Tzu underlines the General’s need to know the inner workings and well-being of his army and the effect his organizational structure has upon his officers and soldiers.

Sun Tzu also states three conditions the General must consider when ordering his men to attack: whether his army is in condition to fight, whether the enemy is open to attack, and whether the nature of the ground makes battle practical.

If only two of these conditions are fulfilled, then the General will only have achieved a partial victory. However, if all three conditions have been observed as true, victory can most certainly be achieved. The great General must be in tune with knowledge of himself, the enemy, and the natural ground and circumstances upon which the battle will be fought.

Along with proverbs specific to his own army, Sun Tzu also presents the General with advice specific to the enemy and their strategies: what enemy movements entail and how the manner in which the enemy moves tips their hand to reveal their strategies and objectives.

For example, the effect of enemy troops on the natural environment may cause the sudden flight of birds in the air, the rising of dust in different types of columns and heights based on troop movement and strength, and the movement of trees in forests and grass – the successful General should be alert to these natural signs.

The General is tasked with being observant of the manner in which these varying natural occurrences reveal enemy troop movement, marches, strategies, and ambushes. This task blends the different traits of the successful General: awareness of natural surroundings and situations as well as knowledge of the enemy.

The clever General does not attack the enemy when their spirit is keen but waits for them to appear sluggish and disheartened – this is called the art of studying moods.

Therefore, the brilliant and successful General is able to observe and decipher the body language of the enemy, whether they are primed for warfare or fight out of obligation and fear. This ability to accurately evaluate an enemy will shape the General’s strategy and the subsequent methods of warfare that are chosen in order to conquer the enemy.

CLEVERNESS AND WISDOM

“All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.” – Sun Tzu

Arguably one of the most famous quotes regarding military tactics, “All warfare is based on deception” highlights the significance of cleverness and cunning necessary for success. Although these qualities would be ideal throughout the army ranks, it is of vital importance for the General to possess these attributes, but to also nurture and develop these skills in the army at large.

Sun Tzu likens the skillful and clever General to the Shuai-Jan, a snake found in the Chung mountains of China.

It is debatable whether the Shuai-Jan snake is a mythical or real creature, but the significance of the metaphor still stands. The Shuai-Jan snake is able to recognize and respond to various scenarios thrown at it: strike at its head, and it will attack with its tail; strike at its tail, and it will attack with its head; strike at its middle and it will attack with both head and tail.

By comparing the General and his army to a living creature capable of such maneuvers, Sun Tzu highlights the importance of unity and adaptability to different situations. It is also worth noting that the head of the snake is the primary means of attacking, while the tail acts as its less deadly form of striking.

With any army, the front force that is attacking is stronger, but the back must still be capable of lashing out if the proper circumstances arise. Thus, the General should lead with his strength, or the head of the snake, while able to still strike with his rear forces or the tail of the snake.

In addition to the Shuai–Jan snake, Sun Tzu implores the General to “at first, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.”

Once again, similes are used to highlight the manner in which to act and strike the enemy.

Before the battle begins, Sun Tzu utilizes the metaphor of a maiden for the General to disguise his strengths and appear weak before the enemy. Thus, the enemy will advance and attack seeking victory over a seemingly feeble opponent, which is the time when the army should strike with the speed and quickness of a hare with the intention of catching the enemy off-guard and unaware.

Besides the metaphor of the maiden and the hare, Sun Tzu encourages the General to pretend to be weak so that the enemy may grow arrogant. The true mark of the clever General is that he imposes his will on the enemy but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him.

This strategy is the height of cleverness and a sure road to victory. In concurrence with the appearance of weakness, holding out traps with which to entice the enemy and feigning disorder and lack of unity is promoted.

In this manner, the enemy will take notice of apparent weakness and chaos – beginning the attack with arrogance and sure victory in sight, unaware of the real might and power of the General’s forces. “Scheme so as to discover his plans and likelihood of their success. Rouse him and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.” – Sun Tzu

Along with cleverness and deception, the great General must develop wisdom so that when battle arrives, he is thoroughly prepared and may be able to decide upon the best route to victory. A crucial part of wisdom is forethought and preparation heading into the battle.

A wise man is prepared for any and all situations.

Sun Tzu encourages the General to think and plan before taking action: “thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat; how much more no calculation at all!” Based on this point, Sun Tzu can forecast who will win or lose based on the amount of preparation and forethought by the opposing forces.

With respect to wisdom, Sun Tzu lists five dangerous faults which may affect the General; these are described as ‘besetting sins,’ which can be ruinous to warfare:

• Recklessness, which leads to destruction
• Cowardice, which leads to capture
• Hasty Temper, which can be provoked by insults
• Delicacy of Honor, which is sensitivity to shame
• Over-Solicitude for his Men, which exposes him to worry and trouble

Overall, these five possible mistakes can be grouped together under the category of wisdom: for a wise man is not reckless, but exudes courage, is not easily angered, and glorifies honor and his men, but not to a fault.

When loss is imminent, and the army is routed, the cause for defeat will surely be revealed in one of these ‘besetting sins.’ Sun Tzu extols these virtues as subjects of necessary meditation. Therefore, the wise General, being aware of these faults, studies their importance and is alert to them in his preparations.

“Thus, what enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge.” – Sun Tzu

KEYS TO VICTORY

“Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.” – Sun Tzu

Before elaborating on the paths to attain victory, the definition of true victory is described by Sun Tzu.

The best way to achieve victory is to capture the enemy’s country whole and intact, and not to shatter and destroy the enemy’s army and country. The reason for this is that the enemy’s troops and supplies can be used to support the conquering army, augmenting one’s own strength.

In addition to the capturing of the enemy, the ‘supreme excellence’ is to break the enemy without engaging in warfare. This proverb also emphasizes the significance of cleverness and wisdom in accomplishing victory through means outside of direct military encounters.

The General’s purpose should be to attain victory, not wage lengthy and costly campaigns out of personal spite or revenge.

Sun Tzu states the highest form of leadership is to first impede the enemy’s plans and schemes. The second alternative is to prevent unity of the enemy’s forces. The next option is to attack the enemy’s army in the field. The worst plan of action of all is to lay siege to walled cities.

In a siege, Sun Tzu compares the General’s troops to ‘swarming ants’ in an assault, with the result of the battle being a possible loss of one-third of his forces. Therefore, the wise General uses means outside of all-out warfare to pursue victory, then employs his army in an assault if necessary. Engaging in a lengthy campaign against a heavily fortified enemy is strongly discouraged.

Along with advice on the type of warfare to be utilized, Sun Tzu declares the effectiveness of a quick victory.

For if the war is long in nature, then the men’s weapons will grow dull and their spirit will be broken. In addition to the physical toll, a prolonged campaign affects troops, diminishes the resources of the nation, strains the economy and people back home grow discouraged.

The troops are disheartened; spirits are dampened, and the treasury is spent. The General must then be wary of other chieftains rebelling and taking advantage of the dire situation.

If this occurs, Sun Tzu says “then no man, however wise, will be able to avert the consequences that must ensue.” The clever and successful General wages a quick campaign with the intent of breaking the enemy’s spirit in order to achieve victory with minimal loss of life.

“In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.” – Sun Tzu

• He will win who, himself prepared, waits to take the enemy unprepared

The first three essentials for victory allude to the General’s knowledge of himself and the enemy as well as of the situation and nature surrounding the field of war.

The fourth precept stresses the importance of wisdom and preparation necessary for war so that victory can be attained through quick and decisive military action. The last proverb for victory does not fit in as well with the others, but the lesson is important nonetheless: the General should not be micromanaged by his superiors or the sovereign, who is not as aware of the military situation as the General or may have other lesser motives.

Sun Tzu touches on the relationship between the sovereign and the General later in The Art of War when he says there are “commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed.”

The basic point is that the one who is most familiar with the situation and aware of what is going on should be making the critical decisions, and not an emperor far away in a distant palace. However, this does not give the General the authority to disregard every decision by the emperor, but rather to act on his own accord in the heat of battle where politics have no place.

“The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.” – Sun Tzu

Not all military tactics are based on offensive maneuvers – there are also defensive strategies designed to thwart an enemy’s assault. Specifically, Sun Tzu encourages a strong defense, one that will not allow defeat before any offensive tactics are deployed.

In this case, the army’s defense acts as a hedge against the possibility of failure by the army’s offensive assaults. Sun Tzu believes there are opportunities for victory when one takes advantage of the enemy’s mistakes, thereby ensuring their defeat.

The first priority of the General then is to make certain the defenses can hold against defeat and then wait for the enemy to give him the path through which victory can be attained. Sun Tzu states “the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.”

This statement directly contradicts common perceptions about warfare mentality, in that the initial objective of the General should be about not suffering defeat rather than winning. However, this strategy will change over time and is based on the movements made by the enemy and if those actions provide an opportunity for victory.

Additionally, the General must be able to adapt his tactics throughout the course of the battle – a static battle plan is futile against the changing status of war. Sun Tzu again uses nature as an analogy, when he states that, similar to water, an army should be changing its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows.

Water has the ability to change its form and course upon a moment’s notice when it encounters different terrain and natural surfaces.

So, an army should be fluid to the circumstances surrounding it, which is a duty the General must master in order to be successful.

“Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldiers work out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.” Military tactics should also be similar to water in its course of action in that, as water flows from high ground to low ground, it is also better strategically to strike from high places to lower places.

Sun Tzu states “he who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain.” This skill is not common to the average man and is a mark of a wise and clever General with years of experience and superb leadership skills.

Sun Tzu also uses three metaphors to emphasize the need for altering tactics based on the particular situation.

He states that, while there are only five musical notes, these notes give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are only five primary colors, yet, in combination, they produce more hues and mixes than can ever be seen.

Lastly, there are not more than five cardinal tastes, but these senses yield more flavors than can ever be tasted. These metaphors highlight how warfare, though simple in its base state, is of a very complex nature through the combination of different tactics.

According to Sun Tzu, there are only two methods of attack – the direct and indirect. The direct method, although not explicitly defined, is used for joining the battle, and indirect methods are necessary for securing victory.

Sun Tzu compares the use of indirect tactics to the rising and setting of the sun and moon in that when one ends, the other rises to take its place; the sun sets only to rise again the next day. These two means of attack give rise to an endless number of tactical maneuvers. The direct and indirect methods are similar to moving in a circle since it never ends – the number of combinations between these two methods is inexhaustible.

Sun Tzu’s The Art of War , one of the most significant military books ever written, describes in great length the qualities and manners in which the notable General can achieve victory. Before the war has even begun, the General must possess an understanding and awareness of the environment surrounding the battlefield so as to prepare and develop strategies conducive to the circumstances.

In addition to knowledge of the ‘playing field,’ the General must be in tune with his army and know its strengths and weaknesses; the same can be said of the enemy forces. Knowledge of these three factors and how they affect warfare are essential in the making of the General.

While these previous factors are critical to the understanding of the battle-field, it is essential that the General develops clever and wise schemes based on this knowledge. If the General then uses his knowledge in a practical manner and deploys brilliant tactics conducive to rapid strikes with fluid tactics, victory will surely be his.

“Battles are won by slaughter and maneuver. The greater the general, the more he contributes in maneuver, the less he demands in slaughter.” — Winston Churchill

“There are but two powers in the world, the sword, and the mind. In the long run, the sword is always beaten by the mind.” — Napoleon Bonaparte

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:

Q1. Sun Tzu encourages the use of spies and other deceptive military methods, which translated to modern day, may appear illegal or immoral. Is Sun Tzu’s strategy, in this regard, still relevant? The United States still employs spies who live and work according to the phrase “all warfare is based on deception.” In what way can you use ‘deception’ to your advantage in a corporate setting?

Q2. Do you believe in Sun Tzu’s method of treating his army with love, such as his ‘sons’ while instilling them with discipline ( “Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons and they will stand by you even unto death”) ? If so, how do you balance these two so as not to appear weak or overbearing?

Q3. Do you believe you hold the qualities and traits outlined above that Sun Tzu deemed necessary for a great General to possess?

Q4. Do you treat business as war?

Q5. Do you believe it is possible to achieve ‘victory’ over an enemy in modern business? If so, what does this ‘victory’ look like for you and your company? Do you believe Sun Tzu’s tactics will assist you in this ‘victory’?

Q6. Sun Tzu states “too frequent rewards indicate that the General is at the end of his resources; too frequent punishments that he is in acute distress.” Is this true in a corporate setting?

Britt always taught us Titans that Wisdom is Cheap , and principal can find treasure troves of the good stuff in books. We hope only will also express their thanks to the Titans if the book review brought wisdom into their lives.

This post has been slightly edited to promote search engine accessibility.

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Review – The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Introduction: is the art of war still relevant today.

Whenever I read classics such as The Art of War, The Way of the Samurai and The Book of Five Rings, I always look for metaphors to make the text relevant for today. I often use competition as a metaphor for war.

Sun Tzu, a Chinese philosopher, military general, and strategist from 722–481 BC wrote The Art of War, which is one of the earliest books on military strategy. Many military leaders and strategists from all over the world have studied the contents of The Art of War. In a nutshell, The Art of War by Sun Tzu is about two things:

• How to prepare your defense to prevent attack.
• How to defeat your enemy.

I asked the question “ Is The Art of War still relevant today?” And I think it still has some relevance today. I have read The Art of War twice, and the second time I got far more from it than I did the first time. Whenever I read for information or the further my knowledge, I try to place the book’s text in my world, to determine what ideas I can extract and apply. There are lots of nuggets that I can apply to leadership and business. But, there is also lots of information in The Art of War that I would discard today. And that’s okay for you to do that, because it shows that you have a discriminating mind.

In The Art of War , Sun Tzu says that there are five constant factors that you have to consider when you are planning your military strategy.

• The Moral Law : The people have to be prepared to follow their ruler, despite any danger they may face by doing so.
• Heaven : This signifies day or night; heat or cold; spring, summer, fall or winter; and time of the day.
• Earth : Signifies distance to cover, open ground and narrow passages to travel, probability of life and death, danger and security.
• The Commander : Stands for courage and strictness, benevolence, sincerity and wisdom.
• Method and Discipline : How will food get to the troops? How will military expenditures be managed? How will the army be subdivided? How will officers be ranked? These are all things to consider and figure out.

When determining military conditions, objectively and honestly, compare your “enemy” to “yourself” because this can often decide success or failure; victory or defeat.

Seven Things to Consider That Determines Victory or Defeat

Which of the two sovereigns is imbued with the Moral Law (as defined above)?

• Which of the two generals have the most ability?
• With whom lie the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?
• On which side is Discipline most rigorously enforced?
• Which army is stronger?
• On which side are officers and men more highly trained?
• In which army is there greater constancy in reward and punishment?

No one ever benefits from a lengthy war and the object should be victory, not lengthy campaigns, says Sun Tzu. There are however five essential for victory.

Five Essential for Victory

• He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.
• He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces.
• He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all ranks.
• He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared.
• He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign.

Five Dangers That May Affect a General

• Recklessness which leads to destruction.
• Cowardice which leads to capture.
• A hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults.
• A delicacy of honour which is sensitive to shame.
• Over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble.

Great Ideas from The Art of War

• Do everything to prevent defeat and wait for the opportunity to defeat the enemy and attack their weaknesses. This teaches patience .
• It is just as easy to lead a large army of men as a few men, it’s all in the way you divide the men. A test of true leadership .
• Whoever is first to the field has the advantage as they wait for the enemy who will be rushing to catch up. Don’t squander the lead you have, work to gain more of an advantage .
• Do not repeat the tactics that served you well in the past, shake things up and try new methods and techniques based on the circumstances. The past is not always the perfect predictor for the present and future .
• He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and succeed is a “heaven-born captain.” This is flexibility in leadership .
• We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with our neighbours. Get to know someone first before getting into a partnership or alliance .
• We shall be unable to turn natural advantage to account unless we make use of local guides. The best way to enter a foreign market is through the locals .
• Do not rely on the enemy not showing up, but instead prepare to receive them. If you know your enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and Earth, you may make your victory complete. Preparation takes away a lot of anxiety and fear .
• Throw your soldiers into positions where there is no escape and they will prefer death to flight. If they face death, there is nothing they may not achieve. Face your fears and you can conquer anything .
• The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution. This is the way to keep a country at peace and an army intact. Let go of arrogance and keep your ego in check .

During and after reading The Art of War by Sun Tzu, I realized that a lot of wisdom he shares can be used in many different contexts, and some can be applied to business. I recommend The Art of War , but I suggest that while you are reading it, do not think of the book as one about military strategy, but a metaphor for something that’s relevant in your world, whatever that might be.

UPDATE: First published in September 2011

About the Author  Avil Beckford

Hello there! I am Avil Beckford, the founder of The Invisible Mentor. I am also a published author, writer, expert interviewer host of The One Problem Podcast and MoreReads Success Blueprint, a movement to help participants learn in-demand skills for future jobs. Sign-up for MoreReads: Blueprint to Change the World today! In the meantime, Please support me by buying my e-books Visit My Shop , and thank you for connecting with me on LinkedIn , Facebook , Twitter and Pinterest !

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The Art of War

Sun tzu , thomas cleary  ( translator ).

273 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 401

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Book Review: The Art of War

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” is arguably one of two great books written on the topic, the other being Major General Carl von Clausewitz’s On War. Others might include “The Book of Five Rings” by the samurai warrior Miyamoto Musashi.

“The Art of War” is primarily considered a classic treatise on military strategy – as is Musashi’s work, while Clausewitz’s treatise is primarily considered a work on the philosophy of war. There is still some debate as to the identity of Sun Tzu an when he wrote his masterpiece. Most scholars argue it dates to the evocatively-named Spring and Autumn period (722–481BC). Some believe it was written during the later Warring States period (476–221BC).

Over the centuries, and especially over the last, a number of translations have appeared. This reviewer prefers and recommends that of US Marine Corps Brigadier General Samuel B Griffith, completed “in part satisfaction of requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy” at Oxford University in October 1960. It thus has an academic rigour missing from many other translations, combined with the common sense of a serving soldier – Griffith commanded the 1st Marine Raiders Battalion on Guadalcanal, was executive officer of the 1st Raider Regiment in operations on New Georgia and commanded the 3rd Marine Regiment in China. The English is uncommonly clear as well, giving us a book that is easy to read and understand.

The wikipedia, which has excellent entries on Griffith, Sun Tzu and “The Art of War”, well worth reading in their own right, notes the book is composed of 13 chapters, each of which is devoted to one aspect of warfare. “It is said to be the definitive work on military strategies and tactics of its time, and still one of the basic texts.”

Griffith, in his preface, notes that Sun Tzu considered war “a matter of vital importance to the state”, demanding study and analysis. The ‘Art of War’ therefore is “the first known attempt to formulate a rational basis for the planning and conduct of military operations. … His purpose was to develop a systematic treatise to guide rulers and generals in the intelligent prosecution of successful war. “The Art of War has had a profound influence throughout Chinese history and on Japanese military thought; it is the source of Mao Tse-tung’s strategic theories and of the tactical doctrine of the Chinese armies. Through the Mongol-Tartars, Sun Tzu’s ideas were transmitted to Russia and became a substantial part of her oriental heritage. The ‘Art of War’ is thus required reading for those who hope to gain a further understanding of the grand strategy of these two countries today.” Indeed. A well-thumbed, heavily annoted and highlighted copy of this book should have a place of pride in every military professional’s library.

Sun Tzu (translated by Samuel B. Griffith)

The Art of War

Oxford University Press

Oxford 1963

ISBN 0-19-501476-6.

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The Art of War | Sun Tzu | Book Review

“Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.” ― Sun Tzu,  The Art of War

Meticulously written with old takes on an otherwise contentious topic like war, written to highlight the multi-dimensional implications of its central topic, The Art of War is a book meant for all levels of readers regardless of whether they are beginners, at an intermediate level, or advanced and voracious book worms.

This book is known well as a timeless classic of East Asian culture and history, but it will not be wrong to say that it is a timely classic abounding in wisdom, advice, and higher-order thinking. The book is bound to make readers ponder over the sayings and wonder at the limitless wisdom that the ancients held in a time when there was little advancement in technology.

It is an ancient Chinese text which is better termed a treatise written by Sun Tzu, who was a 6th-century warrior philosopher. According to traditional historians, there is a consensus that Sun Tzu lived between 544- 496 BC, and apparently, his name at birth was Sun Wu.

The theme of the book as its title suggests is about the philosophy behind fighting the enemy and the politics of warfare, and the strategies that will lead to successful military interventions effortlessly. This has a lot to do with the scientific manner of relaying the ideas that make this text not only informative but also interesting.

The ideas of this book are meant to serve beyond its literal ends of planning and propagating battle strategies, and also include the philosophical side of life and the battles that each individual is bound to face. It is this notion of being at war with the darkness of life to be able to tackle these difficulties and emerge as a victor. The book also serves to ward off the victim mentality and to instill the value of fighting against the odds no matter how bleak the situation and circumstances look.

“Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.”

― Sun Tzu, The Art of War

It is with this sense of positive outlook that fighting for life becomes an art that Sun Tzu helps the reader to master through his adages. These are more logical tactics and strategic methods that will help boost the reader’s understanding of the backstage situation of war. This book has been so deeply and widely read that almost all global leaders are familiar with it and have drawn extensively from Sun Tzu’s wise sayings.

The text is divided into 13 chapters and all ideas are presented in numbered points. This eases the reading process as readers do not need to skim through lengthy passages and jot down the ideas. It reduces the hassle and does the homework for the reader too. It only asks for attentive reading while the text caters to the thought process of readers by acknowledging and understanding that not all readers have an equal amount of time and attention span.

Hence, the ideas are put forth without too much of instructive guidelines and this leaves room for readers to interpret and make the most of what is being conveyed by Sun Tzu.

“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”

Each chapter has a certain theme that is then elaborated in the points noted in the chapter. While fighting with energy and a good tactical plan is important, the emphasis of the text is on the laying down of proper plans that are rational, organised, systematic, and require less impromptu thinking on behalf of the warrior at the battleground.

The concept is that this reduces the risks of going unplanned at war and it transfers full control onto the warrior without letting the enemy or opposition see how well-prepared the troop is.

The text covers almost all the aspects of war and particularly the various areas of a warzone. This includes the importance of the positioning of soldiers and warriors as a part of the military strategy to fool spies and enemy warriors undercover, to the behavior that is expected from warriors, and the counter-treatment of troops in order to have a foolproof dynamic strategy that will lead to a definite victory.

However, the text is not only restricted to the physical aspects of war but also goes in-depth towards the psychology of war and being a warrior. It delves into subjects such as the need for and how diplomacy should be conducted by assuring the proper cultivation of relationships with other states.

The moot point of the text is, in fact, not to go to war with other states but to nip such a situation in its bud and to ensure that war can be avoided through peaceful talks and negotiations. Terse, crisp, and epigrammatic, the teachings of this text remain utterly significant, relatable, and relevant to modern-day readers.

The book is also not too lengthy at hardly 100 pages. It makes this more like a short pamphlet, but one that has a lot of density of thought and requires twice as much attention and dedication in deciphering the wisdom behind these thoughts.

Cannot wait to read it? Buy your copy of The Art of War by Sun Tzu using the link below.

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About the Author

Tasnima yasmin.

Avid reader. Aspiring writer. Book blogger. Lazy Daisy.

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THE ART OF WAR - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

THE ART OF WAR

A collection of precise instructions for ... chapter 9 marches. how to march and determine the strengths and weaknesses of an army based on their marches ... – powerpoint ppt presentation.

• A LESSON IN LEVEL III LEADERSHIP
• A collection of precise instructions for military leaders on how to conduct war
• Written in China between 450 300 BC
• Influenced military and political leaders
• Warring tribes created turbulent times in China (approx 450 BC)
• Each tribal ruler had the ambition to maintain and expand their area
• Recruiting and training uneducated peasants
• Organizing and directing an army were important tasks
• Transporting
• Coordinating
• Rulers enlisted military scholars to offer advice
• Sun Tzu composed the art of war for Ho-Lu who was one of the more powerful tribal Kings
• The Art of War is 13 chapters with several strategic statements
• Sun Tzu has a strong belief in the autonomy of the sovereign
• The doctrine is a complex theory of the use of power in organizations
• Chapter 1 Estimates
• The fundamental factors and elements of managing an army and waging war
• Chapter 2 Waging War
• Logistical considerations of war
• Cites motivation of troops running low on provisions
• Chapter 3 Offensive Strategy
• General offensive strategy but emphasizes winning without battle
• Chapter 4 Dispositions
• The value of strategic planning
• Chapter 5 Energy
• Organization and control of resources
• Chapter 6 Weaknesses and Strengths
• How to attack the enemy and the importance of examining the situation
• Chapter 7 Maneuver
• Logistical methods of employing troops
• Chapter 8 The nine variables
• Different battlefield locations and the 5 key character faults of an effective leader
• Chapter 9 Marches
• How to march and determine the strengths and weaknesses of an army based on their marches
• Chapter 10 Terrain
• Considerations related to terrain and topics about troops
• Chapter 11 The Nine Varieties of Ground
• Discusses ground types and then principles of human nature like rewards and punishments
• Chapter 12 Attack by Fire
• Considerations related to the use of fire in attack and some EQ considerations
• Chapter 13 Employment of Secret Agents
• The use of industrial spies in warfare
• Does Sun Tzus strategies
• Display Level III Leadership?
• Target all levels of leadership (Organizational, Work Group, Individual)?
• Utilize deceptive and/or coercive manipulation?
• Have a moral foundation which consists of some or all of the four cornerstones (Truth Telling, Promise Keeping, Fairness, and Respect)?
• Demonstrate Control and/or Choice Theory?
• The Context of War
• Moral Influence
• Commanding by Understanding VABEs
• Group versus Individual
• Manipulation
• Violations of Four Cornerstones
• No Acknowledgement of Troops VABEs
• What can the Art of War teach us about Leadership in Organizations?
• Some ideologies can stand the test of time, even as societies and businesses evolve
• Planning, organizing, considering the elements and smart decision making will result in success
• Moral influence from leaders will result in deep loyalty and commitment from those that they lead

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