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The Art of War

By Sun Tzu
3.95 goodreads logo

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( 505,833 ratings, 19,853 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Art of War by Sun Tzu is an ancient Chinese military treatise that offers strategic advice and wisdom on warfare. It covers various aspects of conflict, including tactics, leadership, and the importance of adaptability and intelligence. The principles outlined can be applied not only to military strategy but also to modern business and personal challenges.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3000
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy timeless wisdom on strategy and tactics, whether for military, business, or personal development. Its concise and profound insights make it a fascinating read for anyone interested in leadership and strategic thinking.

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The Art of War

Compiled more than 2000 years ago, this text still aims to be relevant in modern times as a book of strategy. A study of the anatomy of organizations in conflict, it applies to competition and conflict in general, on every level from the interpersonal to the international.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Compiled more than 2000 years ago by the revered warrior-philosopher Sun Tzu, The Art of War is a timeless text on strategy and tactics that continues to wield influence in modern times. This enduring classic dissects the anatomy of conflict and competition, providing insights applicable on interpersonal, organisational, and international levels. It aspires to teach invincibility, the pursuit of victory without battle, and the attainment of unassailable strength through a profound understanding of the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict.

Sun Tzu's work transcends mere military interest, resonating deeply within fields as diverse as business, sports, and diplomacy. His principles of strategy outline methods to outthink and outmanoeuvre opponents, urging the reader to master the delicate balance between aggression and diplomacy, as well as the prudent use of resources and intelligence. The strategist is advised to understand not only the nature of conflict but also the underlying human psychology that drives it, honing an almost intuitive capability to anticipate and counter adversary moves.

This particular translation of The Art of War is notable for its grounding in the spiritual tradition of Taoism, illuminating the profound philosophical and ethical underpinnings that inform Sun Tzu's thought. It links the wisdom of this ancient text to the origins of psychology, science, and technology in East Asia, thereby enriching the reader's comprehension of the broader cultural and historical context.

The work is meticulously translated from a respected collection of commentaries on Sun Tzu's original manuscript by 11 distinguished interpreters. Their collective insights have been crafted to highlight the fundamental principles of strategy and their practical applications. The translator also provides an illuminating introduction that delves into the content and historical background of the book, offering a valuable framework for understanding its perennial relevance.

Beyond its military ambitions, The Art of War serves as an indispensable guide for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of competition and conflict in any arena. This masterful translation not only captures the essence of Sun Tzu's philosophy but also ensures its accessibility to contemporary readers, making it an essential addition to any strategic thinker's library.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Thomas Cleary's translation of The Art of War presents Sun Tzu's timeless strategies in a compelling and relevant manner. Reviewers praise its relevance, clarity, and practical wisdom, making it a valuable guide for not just military strategy but also personal and professional leadership.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780877734529

Publisher: Shambhala Publications Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 26 October 1988

Country: United States

Imprint: Shambhala Publications Inc

Contributors:

  • Translated by Thomas Cleary

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 12.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 228.0mm

Weight: 255g

Pages: 184

About the Author

The warrior-philosopher and master strategist Sun Tzu, about whom little is known, compiled The Art of War more than two thousand years ago. Legend has it that he was known for the brilliant campaigns he led around the time of Confucius. His work was memorized and passed down orally, before eventually being copied onto bamboo strips and passed around.

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