Auteur: Active 6th Century B. C. Sunzi

Sunzi, known also as Sun Tzu, is a towering figure in Chinese military strategy and philosophy, active in the 6th century B.C. His seminal work, “The Art of War”, also referred to at times as “The Book of War: The Military Classic of the Far East”, has earned him a perennial place in both eastern and western military and business strategy discourses (Ames, 1993). The text, composed of 13 chapters, encapsulates a comprehensive approach to conflict resolution, strategy, and tactical foresight. Beyond the military, Sunzi”s principles have found application in business strategies, legal strategies, and leadership models, testifying to the work”s enduring versatility and relevance. Sunzi”s philosophical roots stem from the Taoist tradition, where the natural order of things is emphasized, and victory is achieved through adaptation and minimal conflict. His aphorisms, including the well-known “know yourself and know your enemy”, underscore the psychological and competitive aspects of conflict. Scholars, however, debate Sunzi”s historicity, with arguments oscillating between a single authorship and a compilation of wisdom by multiple strategists (Graff & Higham, 2002). Regardless of authorship disputes, Sunzi”s influence on the canon of strategic thought is beyond question, standing as a testament to the work”s profound depth and utility in understanding the art of war and beyond.