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by Robin Sharma
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The Art of War (new version) summary
Sun Tzu
Classic military strategy for politics, business, and everyday life
11 mins
Brief summary
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu is a classic military strategy book that focuses on winning without going to battle. It teaches tactics for successful warfare and is applicable in various fields, including business and politics.
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The Art of War (new version)
Summary of 4 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 4
The Art of War and its historical context.
Let’s start by putting The Art of War and its author into context by rewinding 2,500 years. It’s the fifth century BCE, a period marred by battles between different warring states in China. Among those leading and advising in these battles was Sun Tzu – and he was winning a lot.
He was a Chinese general, military strategist, and writer – and all of his victories inspired his military treatise. Yes, this is a book about war. But you’ll find that the ideas in it focus more on alternatives to actual fighting – like submission (if only temporary).
The book has 13 chapters, each with a lot of bullet points rather than prose about war tactics. You’ve already gotten a huge spoiler, which is that you should “pick your battles” – and that a war is best won without any fighting at all.
But before we dive into this, let’s touch on the 13 chapters. They’re about making plans, the economy of warfare, the five pillars of a strong united front, the importance of defending your position, how to use creativity on the field, how to quickly respond to changes, the dangers of direct conflict, the need for flexibility, evaluating the intention of others, the three areas of resistance, the nine stages of a campaign, how to employ weapons correctly, and utilizing good information.
A lot of the material has to do with using the landscape and your army’s resources to your advantage. If you want the details of each, we recommend you get the book and read it. But if you want to learn how to be a good leader based on this book, stay with us.
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What is The Art of War (new version) about?
The Art of War (fifth century BCE) is a Chinese military treatise that many global figures, including Mao Zedong and Douglas MacArthur, have used to inform their leadership strategies. Along with military tactics that can be applied to culture, politics, business, and sports, it highlights the skills good leaders need to have.
The Art of War (new version) Review
The Art of War by Sun Tzu (5th century BC) is a timeless classic that offers profound insights into the strategies and tactics of warfare. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its practical wisdom and strategic principles, it provides valuable lessons that can be applied not only in warfare, but also in various aspects of life.
- Through real-life examples and historical anecdotes, the book effectively illustrates the importance of careful planning, leadership, and adaptability.
- Its concise and insightful nature makes it a fascinating read, as it captures the essence of warfare and imparts strategic wisdom without unnecessary detail.
Who should read The Art of War (new version)?
- Anyone interested in the foundations of good leadership
- Those who want to gain a competitive advantage
- People who find themselves in confrontational situations
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The Art of War (new version) FAQs
What is the main message of The Art of War?
The main message of The Art of War is strategic warfare and leadership tactics.
How long does it take to read The Art of War?
Reading The Art of War takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Art of War a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Art of War is worth reading due to its invaluable lessons on strategy and leadership.
Who is the author of The Art of War?
The author of The Art of War is Sun Tzu.
What to read after The Art of War (new version)?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Art of War (new version), here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
- Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
- The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen
- The Daily Laws by Robert Greene
- 12 Rules For Life by Jordan B. Peterson
- Sun Tzu and the Art of Business by Mark R. McNeilly
- How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald Robertson
- The Game by Neil Strauss
- The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene
- The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene