The Art of War

There is a reason why such diverse leaders as five-star generals, Fortune 500 CEO's and Tony Soprano have consulted this classic book on the planning and conduct of military operations. Written in China more than 2000 years ago, The Art of War remains a timeless and timely guide to strategy and planning, with applications that range far beyond actual warfare. Sun Tzu's ideas are presented in clear, lucid prose; he focuses on principles that are critical to the task of overcoming an opponent while following the tao (the right way). Some examples: "The best battle is the battle that is won without being fought." "By command, I mean the general's qualities of wisdom, sincerity, humanity, courage, and strictness." "He whose ranks are united in purpose will be victorious." Even as Sun Tzu recognizes the inevitability of military conflict and the high cost it exacts, he offers philosophical aphorisms for moral conduct. In this and countless other ways, The Art of War has lost none of its power and relevance after more than two millennia.