Chapter 1 of The Art of War

One of the most original text on the art of war is by a Chinese strategist.
If you intend to pursue a career in business, management or politic, you have to study this book and meditate on the words of wisdom from Sun Tzu.
There are only 13 chapters in this short book. But, it has completely captured the essence of how to win in a conflict, contest, competition.
This book is necessary for survival in a world of ours. Yes, we may choose to live a life of peace and tranquility. Unfortunately the human kind is a race of ferocious being. You have to know what other people of doing to you in a conflicted environment.
In any case it is a tool box you will find invaluable as you embark on a road to understand the human kind and the society we live in.
Let me quickly introduce the 13 chapters and share with you the first chapter.  If you do not know it yet, it pays to absorb the lesson and wisdom well.
The 13 chapters in the Book of War are as follows:
1. Detailed Assessment and Planning
2. Waging War
3. Strategic Attacks
4. Disposition of the Army
5. Forces
6. Weaknesses and Strengths
7. Military Manoeuvres
8. Variations and Adaptability
9. Movement and Deployment of Troops
10. Terrain
11. The Nine Battlegrounds
12. Attacking with Fire
13. Intelligence and Espionage
These chapters may use military language. But they are as relevant and pertinent to everyday situation. I will point out why is that so during the course of dealing with this important subject.
Truth is we human beings have not changed our habit and behavior even though the world has changed much, the socio-economic and political structure has evolved, but our contentious mindset and sectarian interests have not.
Conflicts are real in human society. Men are not peaceful beings. People love to fight.  Many do so in order to find meaning in life.
If you are a peace loving person, God bless you. Even then you have to deal with fighters and contentious people all through your life.  So brace for it and learn from the Art of War.

From: Ting Ho