The book, “The Art of War,” is often cited by businessmen, military strategists, actors, and other personalities. It is a book that was written by Sun Tzu back in the 6th century in China. The history of its translation into various languages is quite interesting. Eventually, it was translated into English with different versions. The version I prefer is the one made by James Clavell, who wrote the best-seller, “Shogun.”
The interesting thing about the book, “The Art of War”, is that it is not about imposing military power or force to dominate someone or another country. It can be misused (as with anything else) to serve the misguided ambitions of self-serving businessmen, power-hungry politicians, or just deceitful people. The true context of the book is proper and strong leadership. Leadership of other people and of oneself.
The book is divided into thirteen chapters:
1) Plans and Calculations
2) make war
3) The plan of attack
4) Tactical Arrangements or Positioning
5) Energy
6) Weak and Strong Points
7) Activate and maneuver the force
8) Variations of Tactics
9) Moving Forces
10) Earth
11) Battlefields
12) Attack with Fire
13) The use of intelligence and spies
The title of each of the chapters will vary depending on the translations. Within each of the thirteen chapters are principles for carrying out leadership skills, especially in warfare, politics, or business.
There are countless examples in history where the violation of a principle cost the lives of many troops. For example, at Gettysburg, Confederate troops charged up a hill against a fortified Union position. This is highly discouraged in the book. If you are attacking the enemy in a clearly uneven position or terrain, you should go downhill, not uphill. It cost the lives of many soldiers because of this suicide attack. More importantly, the book discusses and explains that you must know yourself and your enemy, then you will win your battles. Your enemy could be a matter of making a profit for your business or winning an election or winning the court of public opinion. There are multiple practical applications of “The Art of War” philosophies.
Recent examples of military failures occur when battles become more of a political maneuver than separate military directives. Cloudiness and ambiguity cause dissension and uncertainty among those involved, especially among soldiers and people who must comply with directives or orders. “The Art of War” provides clarity and certainty of purpose through the application of principles.
