The Art of War

By Sun Tzu

Categories: History

The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise attributed to the strategist Sun Tzu. Though it runs to only about 6,000 Chinese characters, many consider it the greatest book on strategy ever written. Across 13 short chapters it covers planning, maneuvering, terrain, and the use of spies, and stresses knowing both your enemy and yourself. Generals have studied it for centuries, and business leaders, coaches, and lawyers have borrowed its lessons too.

Recommended by 6 people

• Neil deGrasse Tyson
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• Andrew Ross Sorkin: “While we’re talking about titans and strategy, pick up “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu... it is an interesting window into the soul and strategy of much of the corporate world.”