#74, "The Art of War"

"The Art of War"
Sun Tzu

I have been wanting to read this for years. When I was a teenager, I saw it somewhere--maybe the library--and the idea of an ancient text that offered knowledge and wisdom and pro tips on battle and war was enticing. It seemed cool, in a word. Plus I heard that businessmen and politicians had referenced it for their endeavors, something that I didn't think all the way through philosophically at the time and had no problem with.

Now, fifteen years later, I can say that it is fairly dull. I don't know much about modern military tactics, but I don't think the ability to read enemy movements by watching dust on the horizon is up to the standards of the 21st century. Of course I joke here. There is interesting content, especially when you consider the age of the writings--according to Wikipedia, there were compiled about 500 BC--that I suppose can have implications for modern military or business people. The opening section, which outlines basic foundations for warfare, is great stuff when applied to debate, to politics, and to a general understanding of warfare. I reckon some people employ these tactics in relationships, too, though I wouldn't say that is a great way to win friends. As the tract progresses, the prescriptions become less practical and more inconsequential. Overall, the effect is much like any self-help book: take what seems to apply to you, and ditch the rest.

My biggest takeaway is that Sun Tzu is pronounced, "shinswuh". So now at a dinner party you can correct the ignorant savage who says, "Ever read that book by Suhn Zoo?"