nd misdeeds summarily punished" (10). Sun Tzu's ideas of proper disciplinary methods reflect the tenor of his times; while they may not be strictly applicable to Twentieth Century armies, the basic importance of discipline remains. Also in this first chapter, the author emphasizes the value of deception in warfare: "[a]ll warfare is based upon deception" (11).
The third chapter has attracted some of the most attention amongst modern civilian observers. In this chapter, Sun Tzu declares that "supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting" (15). By this he means that it is better to conquer with minimal destruction and loss of life than to wreak destructive havoc upon a country. Consequently, it is better to capture an enemy force than to destroy it, better to win without engaging in combat than to lose men in battle. Again, this can only be brought about by a commander who is prepared. As the author says at the end of the chapter, "[if] you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles" (18).
The fourth through seventh chapters deal with the actual operations on the battlefield. In these chapters, the author explains the best ways in which to move troops about the battlefield and engage the enemy. The most important idea in this section is that the best commanders are the ones who defeat their enemies ease. They put themselves in positions where they cannot be defeated; they engage the enemy only "after the victory has been won ..." (20). In addition, indirect methods of attack ensure victory. Here again is the idea of deceit; making the enemy believe something that is not actually true. Thus, simulating weakness entices an enemy to attack an army that is actually organized and strong (21-24).
Sun Tzu advises paying attention to strong points and weak points. The commander who strengthens one part of his force does so at the expense of anothe...