...The Art of War Written nearly 2500 years ago by ancient Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu, The Art of War was written for the used for victory on the battlefield. However, The Art of War still continues to be an efficient tool not only for armed warfare, but serves as a viewpoint for business administration and victorious leadership in our modern age as well. Sun Tzu believed, “To win without fighting is best.” And the point of The Art of War is to assist the populace to learn negotiating conflicts and learn guidelines to succeed. Sun Tzu’s philosophy can serve as a guideline for many different war and management principles, including the philosophy of maneuver, purpose, offensive, surprise, the economy of force, mass, unity of command, simplicity, secrecy, deception, practicality, responsibility, practicality, shared objective, tactic, structure, system, staff, skill, style, innovation leadership and mergers and acquisitions. What I like about the words of Sun Tzu is that he is swift to the point. There aren’t a lot of verbose explanations, just very precise statements, which adds to the book’s efficacy. The thing that intrigued me the most about The Art of War were the insight into leadership and business that Sun Tzu’s philosophy provided. Anyone that has been in any type of leadership understands the truth of such words. If you are a weak leader, you will not be respected by those under you. If you are a strong leader...
Words: 297 - Pages: 2
...The Art of War 1 The Five Key Lessons From The Art of War The Art of War 2 Principles of Management 105 Jessica Sanders June 17, 2012 The Five Key Lessons from The Art of War The Art of War is a very interesting book consisting of 13 chapter of how successful wars are overcome written by Sun Tzu in 500BC. The Art of War was written on vertical bamboo strips each no longer than a chop stick. Each stick contained 15-25 Chinese characters that were later stitched together. Inside the 13 chapters of The Art of War lie the secrets to success, which was hidden for a thousand years. Sun Tzu stated if you follow his principles you will prevail, but if you ignore them you will lose. He stated that he could turn anyone into a soldier. He appointed leaders, but women did not take him serious. They thought his orders were funny. One of Sun Tzu principles stated that if the orders are unclear it is the fault of the general that the troops do not obey, but if the orders are clear, it is the fault of the subordinate officers that the orders are not obeyed. Sun Tzu killed his first two appointed leaders for disobeying his orders. Every then followed him. He then became commander of Wu Army. Sun Tzu's principle war is a matter of life and death which is key principle of his teachings, and once understood everyone will be motivated to win. His most important principles were to know your enemy and know yourself and in 100 battles...
Words: 536 - Pages: 3
...Tzu's The Art of War Written 500 years B.C., The Art of War is a Chinese military treatise that was written by Sun Tzu during the Spring and Autumn period. The treatise is composed of 13 chapters, each of which is devoted to one aspect of the warfare. For hundreds of years, Sun Tzu’s classic treatise have been used and applied over and over again, not only in military operations, but in all aspects of the human life-to include economic, social and political relations. The Art of War is among the most ancient books published, yet its influence and success continue to amaze the world. The book has been translated and published in almost all languages of the world and its principles have been applied to all walks of life. Indeed, Sun Tzu registered a tremendous influence on both Eastern and Western military thinking, business tactics, and beyond. Even in his times, Sun Tzu had recognized the importance of positioning in strategy as affected by both the physical environment and the opinions of all players in that environment. Sun Tzu taught that tactics is more important that actions-planning must concentrate on tactics. He taught that the strategy is not to a plan course of action, but rather to establish quick and appropriate responses to changing conditions. Planning works in a controlled environment, but in a competitive environment, competing plans collide, creating unexpected situations. The following are five of the 13 principles of Sun Tzu in the Art of War: ...
Words: 1023 - Pages: 5
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
Words: 11176 - Pages: 45
...The Art of War In everything that we do in our life, first thing that we should do is to make plans on how we’re going to do a thing, when will do it, where we will do it, why we’re doing it and what’s the purpose of doing it. Sun Tzu emphasized the importance of positioning in military strategy. The decision to position an army must be based on both objective conditions in the physical environment and the subjective beliefs of other, competitive actors in that environment. He thought that strategy was not planning in the sense of working through an established list, but rather that it requires quick and appropriate responses to changing conditions. Planning works in a controlled environment; but in a changing environment, competing plans collide, creating unexpected situations. In the first chapter of the Art of War talks about laying plans or the calculations. Planning explores the five fundamental factors (the way, seasons, terrain, leadership and management) and seven elements that determine the outcomes of military engagement. By thinking, assessing and comparing these points, a commander can calculate his chances of victory. Habitual deviation from these calculations will ensure failure via improper action. The text stresses that war is a very grave matter for the state and must not be commenced without due consideration. In waging war or the challenge explains how to understand the economy of warfare and how success requires winning decisive engagements quickly. It...
Words: 4471 - Pages: 18
...Sun Tzu’s Art of War According to historians, the exact date of the publication of the book, The Art of War, is not known. In fact, they don’t even know who wrote it. However, it is believed that It was written by a Chinese military leader named Sun Tzu and that he lived in an era where China is at war with nations aiming to conquer their territory and overthrow them, hence creation of the book can be attributed to such situation. When we think of war, the first ideas that would come into our mind are chaos, pandemonium, disorder, and other words that could be attributed to destruction. Also, wars occur often because parties are fighting over something. In a business setting, same goals can be indicated. That is, to gain profits and subsequently overthrow or defeat competitors. Although it appears to be a simple goal, such objective can be achieved in different ways. Sun Tzu’s Art of War mentions 13 principles, which are originally intended to serve as guidance in wars but can also serve as guide in making strategic plans and decisions. One principle is that one must capture the market without destroying it. This means that entities must think of a strategy that will capture the market in a way that leaves the industry healthy. Such can be achieved by using low-key approaches that will not draw a competitor’s attention or response. The second principle, which I think can be applied to businesses, is to avoid strength and attack weakness. This means that instead of making...
Words: 450 - Pages: 2
...philosophy from the ancient book The Art of War which is one of the oldest and most successful books on military strategy. It influenced eastern military thinking and emphasized the most efficient way of gaining victory with the least amount of conflict. The original text is purposely made obscure and difficult to understand, so that Sun Tzu remained employed, as the king would need him for interpretation. Although it has a mixture of profound philosophy and detailed tactical prescriptions that are great for battles about 2500 years ago, the book is also useful today. The teaching of Sun Tzu is powerful: it will not only instruct us, but also reveal where we stand and how to approach a problem, how to deal with adversity, and how to handle the whims of fate. The author, Chin-Ning Chu, perfectly applied Sun Tzu’s theory to integrate our styles and personal philosophy into every action we take. She provided examples, references, and anecdotes that were not available in the original book The Art of War. This book is written particularly for women because women have the ability to negotiate and they are able to be modest and understand that silence is golden. This book will guide us to use the full spectrum of the strategies that are contained in Sun Tzu’s The Art of War with a holistic approach to winning. This book contains 13 chapters and our team covered chapter 1 through 6. Book Summary Chapter 1 The strategies in The Art of War are based on Taoism. Taoism's...
Words: 2588 - Pages: 11
...Throughout most of history, art was seen as a luxury that only few people were privileged or wealthy enough to enjoy and experience. Whether it was during the Renaissance or civil rights campaign, many people were not able to attend the latest art shows or musical offerings because they had no place in such a revered luxurious setting with people of far higher social status (Dearborn Academy). Despite this roadblock to experiencing the big names in art and music of their time, people still had a passion for the arts and had opportunities to experience them at smaller, less known, places. As society has progressed over the years, art slowly has become more and more accessible to the people- as it should be. In fact, I believe that without an audience, art cannot be truly considered art. “Art is a social label, a negotiation between the artist, object (or performance), and the viewer” (Best). Art should be made for the people and not be limited to certain audiences. An artist should create with the goal of connecting to as many people as possible through their work. As stated earlier, historically, art has been seen as something only the privileged could truly appreciate. This could not be farther from the truth! Art is something that everyone can enjoy, experience, and strive to understand. Art should not discriminate or exclude a certain audience, it should bring together all people to evoke a response, send a message, or to maybe just enjoy looking at. During class, we were...
Words: 1310 - Pages: 6
...George Washington, Sun Tzu’s Apprentice The American defeat of the British during the Revolutionary War was a direct result of George Washington’s incredible leadership and generalship which showed the greatness of Sun Tzu’s “Art of War”. The key to the success of the American Revolution was the George Washington himself. Faced with an almost impossible task of defeating a powerful enemy, Washington was required to defy the odds. So how does Washington’s accomplishment of this task relate to Sun Tzu and his teachings of “The Art of War”? There crucial points come to light: Washington’s selection as to command the Continental Army and inherent command capabilities, Washington’s strategy for winning the war against the Empire of Great Britain, and the art of maneuver that eventually lead to the critical defeat of Cornwallis and the British at Yorktown. George Washington was the greatest leader to choose for the revolutionary war. Sun Tzu said a leader needs to have wisdom, sincerity, humanity, courage, and strictness. These five crucial traits are shown in Washington’s strategy to win the War of independence. Washington was the embodiment of everything fine in the American character. In caring for his troops and their families he would spend his own money to help them. Washington brought more than just military ability and statesmanship to the Revolution he brought character. General Washington was respected not just by the rank and file, but also by people in all parts of...
Words: 890 - Pages: 4
...Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León Facultad de Contaduría Pública y Administración International Business Program Finance VI Assignment: The Art of War by Sun Tzu & Risk Management Roberto Mauricio Sandoval Salazar Group: 8Vi ID: 1568794 Teacher: Eduardo Treviño Ciudad Universitaria de Nuevo León, February 28th, 201 The Art of War by Sun Tzu & Risk Management “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.” This quote comes from a translation of the Art of War by Sun Tzu, written in China in what is estimated to be 512 BC. It could seem farfetched to assert that this ancient quote is appropriate in today’s business environment, but it is actually a good metaphor for the challenges and rewards of enterprise risk management. To adapt it to the business context, let’s pacify and update the quote by removing battles and enemies: battles will be business challenges and enemies will be risks threatening the success of your operations. Simply put, Sun Tzu posits that knowing your risks is not enough to ensure your success. Knowledge of the processes that may create the risks is also crucial for success. Incidentally, considering risks in a vacuum is also only half a solution. Obviously, the “succumb in every battle” outcome brought...
Words: 751 - Pages: 4
...and the Art of the War ------ Mengcai LI Similarities 1. Preparation & Understand Needs on Both Sides Whether before a war or before a negotiation, it is of vital importance to know as more as possible the useful information. Because of that, the leader can understand clearly about what the adversary wants and what himself really wants. Then he can identify the items which can be compromised and which can be obtained. Furthermore, during the negotiation, he can notice to avoid his disadvantage part and lead the adversary to his advantage part. 2. Well-informed The factors which can affect the war’s outcome of success or failure are not only relative with the scale of army and the general’s stratagems, but also the weather and geography, so as the negotiation. The more relevant information one has, the better one’s position is. 3. Hide information Both the war and the negotiation, it is necessary to keep some vital important information as secrets which may decide the success or failure. Opposite 1. Irritating the adversary “If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak that he may grow arrogant.” In the war, it is a great strategy to irritate the adversary if the opponent is of choleric temper. However in the negotiation, it is inexpedient to take such action. Because that after most negotiations, both parties want to keep a long term relationship. It is necessary to make the negotiation harmony. 2. Win-Lose/ Win-Win For the war, there...
Words: 488 - Pages: 2
...The Art of War by Sun Tzu Relation to Apple Inc. Apple Inc. Is one of the largest technology manufacture's in the world? This company is known creations, design, media devices, personal computers, portable digital music players, etc... Its products include IPhone, IPad, IPod, Mac, Apple TV, A portfolio of consumer and personal software application, the IOS and OSX operating system, ICloud and accessions. This company also sells and deliver digital contents and application through the ITunes store, Apple store, IBook store and the Mac App store. Apple sells product worldwide through its retail store. The company was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne on April 1, 1976 and it is headquartered in Cupertino CA. Apple is worth $672.0 B . But getting there did not just happen, Apples strategy to them the where they’re right now. "Generally in war, the best policy is to take a state intact: to ruin it is inferior to this ....for to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not to acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skills." Sun Tzu The quote above in relation to business is saying that since the goal of business is to survive and prosper, you must capture the market but not in a way that may destroy it. When I say destroy it I mean not in a way where you change the market until people won't recognize it for what it is. Apple is a company that has taken Sun Tzu strategy and has somehow made it into a company. Before Apple...
Words: 2723 - Pages: 11
...believed to be the author of The Art of War. This was an influential ancient Chinese book on military strategy. His work is thought to have had a considerable impact on Asian, and in particular Chinese, history and culture. The recognition of The Art of War grew during the 19th and 20th centuries and has continued to influence not only Asian culture and politics but western society as well (Cultural China, 2010).The Art of War, written during a period of constant war among seven nations seeking the full control of China, discusses how important it is for an organisation, in this case an army, to be controlled, organised and ready to exploit enemy’s weaknesses. The purpose of the text is to demonstrate that structure within an organisation and mutual philosophies shared i.e. confidence, solidity and even patience can give an organisation the best opportunity to succeed in the task ahead, in this case a war. The Art of War perceives that high leadership control is the most influential component to a firm’s success, similar theories can be shown today. For example, Fiedler’s Contingency theory suggests that a good task structure and strong leader-member relations bond forms an environment where a leader has high control of a situation and greater potential to be successful (Ornstein, A 2011). Traditional accounts describe Sun Tzu as a heroic general of the King of Wu (lived c. 544—496 BCE). Victories for Sun Tzu were what inspired him to write The Art of War (McNeilly, M 2003). When Sun Tzu wrote...
Words: 1021 - Pages: 5
...Content Chapter 4: Disposition of the Army Sun Zi said: In antiquity those who were excelled in warfare result that they would not be defeated and then waited for opportunities to defeat the enemy. Positioning means that importance to defend the existing position lead you to move in advance on your opponents and how you must recognize for the opportunities to defeat the enemy. As indicate in business application, according to the Product Life Cycle there are 3 stages. According to the above as Sun Zi said, this is the first stage of the Product Life Cycle. If your company would like to come out a new product wait for the good opportunity and see the external environment such as government policy, competitor’s strategy, consumer behaviour, trend, supplier and more. The manager of the company have to do some research about the current market, collect more information, build up connection, build up strong financial background, build up internal culture and Research and Development in order to succeed in the future. The vital action is being well prepared before the opportunity coming. In this stage, when an established company comes out with a new product and the product may invest a lot of research and development capital. However the investor might not getting good returns or feedback when compare with the effort they are putting. In other words, this also show an indication that the company to rest and do another well preparation before they start over again for the...
Words: 1817 - Pages: 8
...American Art before and after World War II Marty Rieth ARTS/125 June 27, 2016 Sarah Baer American Art before and after World War II The objective for the following paper is to discuss issues concerning American art before and after World War II. The discussion will include an examination of the artwork of three artists. Two artists will have worked during the Great Depression and one artist will have been an Abstract Expressionist. In discussing the artists’ work, a description of each work and its style will be included. An examination into the Great Depression and the purpose of artwork created during that time, whether they were tools for social reform, and other types of messaging that were present in the works will be discussed. Post-World War II Abstract Expressionism and how it differed from art work of the 1930’s will be discussed. Finally, an explanation into the style of the chosen Abstract Expressionists work and why they were interested in the style will be discussed (Was there a meaning to their work?). Artist Examinations Two artist that come to mind when speaking of The Great Depression are Maynard Dixon and Grant Wood. The artist Maynard Dixon showed his artistic abilities during The Great Depression by creating images in a style dubbed social realism. One of Dixon’s famous paintings was called Springtime on Bear Mountain. The illustration is of a plot of land from the mountainous western countryside. In the front is flat land where a...
Words: 740 - Pages: 3
