Is Sun Tzu Art Of War Book Worth Reading Today?

The book was authored 2,500 years ago, yet it remains a topic of discussion. Can you name any other books of such age that are still in use today?

Sun Tzu Art of War book is a good book and it is worth reading.

"The Art of War" book is meant for leaders and strategists. If you are currently:

1. A business person or leader,

2. Plan to take on a leadership role in your organization, or

3. Want to use art of war strategies to help you to achieve your goals then this book is definitely worth reading.

In this topic, we explore what makes Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" worth reading by understanding its content, and also which version of the book one should read.

Let's begin by knowing who Sun Tzu wrote the book for.

Inside Sun Tzu's "The Art of War," he shares his art of war theory addressing the "ruler," the "commander," and the "general."

1. For the "Ruler":

Sun Tzu advises the ruler in this manner,

It is bad faith if one tries to win battles and make conquest of his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise, for the result is a waste of time and general stagnation.

Hence the saying: The enlighten ruler plans well ahead; the good general carries out the plans.

Sun Tzu advised the ruler to look at the cost and profitability of the battle. He have to consider the factors like the economy of his state, the livelihood of the people in his kingdom and his military resources.

Sun Tzu emphasizes that the wise ruler approaches planning with diligence and foresight. He must carefully weigh the costs associated with engaging in battle against the potential benefits that may arise from victory.

This includes not just the immediate financial costs but also the long-term impact on the society and its citizens. A ruler who fails to consider these elements risks leading his kingdom into unnecessary conflict, resulting in loss and stagnation.

Ultimately, the ruler's ability to strategize effectively sets the stage for the success of his generals, who are tasked with executing these plans. The synergy between a well-prepared ruler and competent generals is essential for achieving victory on the battlefield and ensuring the prosperity of the state.

2. For the "commander":

Sun Tzu said,

The general that listens to my instructions and acts upon it will conquer: keep him in command!

If the general that does not listen to m instructions nor act upon them will suffer defeat: dismiss him!

Sun Tzu reminds the commander that he should know which general to fire and keep in command. Only the general that respects and obeys shall be kept.

Sun Tzu further elaborates on the importance of effective leadership by highlighting that loyalty alone is insufficient.

A general may be loyal, but if he fails to take decisive command and act in accordance with the strategies laid out, his continued presence in leadership could...

jeopardize the mission and lead to inevitable defeat.

3. For the "general":

Sun Tzu advised the General in this wise,

When ten or more chariots have been captured in chariot fighting, rewards are given to those who took first.

What Sun Tzu tells the general is, to provide or implement incentives to motivate his soldiers. The soldier that captures the enemy chariot first will be rewarded.

In the Art of War, Sun Tzu elaborates on various aspects of military operations, including the logistics of marching troops, managing their welfare, and maintaining high morale.

He emphasizes that effective leadership involves not only strategic planning but also the ability to inspire and motivate soldiers. A well-motivated army is often the difference between victory and defeat, as soldiers who feel valued and recognized are more likely to perform at their best.

Which best version of the Art of War should I read?

When seeking to deepen your understanding of Sun Tzu's teachings, it is advisable to select a version of the Art of War that has been carefully interpreted and translated for leaders and strategists.

While it is certainly possible to read the original text and translate it for your own understanding, opting for a version that is specifically tailored for leaders will often provide greater clarity and practical insights.

Such editions typically include commentary and analysis that contextualize Sun Tzu's principles within modern leadership and strategic frameworks, making it easier for readers to grasp and implement the concepts discussed.

By choosing the best version of the art of war book that resonates with your role as a leader or strategist, you will find it more straightforward to apply the wisdom of Sun Tzu to your own challenges and decision-making processes.