Sun Tzu & Machiavelli

Paper Summary:

This essay compares Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" with Niccolo Machiavelli's "The Prince" and applies the principles of both works to the modern business environment. The paper asserts that although the writings were not intended to be applied to business leadership,these classic works are nonetheless timeless strategic guides for the ultimate success. The paper demonstrates how, in today's business world, many aspects can be applied in less dramatic and literal fashion while still having great significance. For example, the paper discusses how in "The Prince", Machiavelli suggests eliminating whole opposing families in order to reduce the threat of revenge. This philosophy has many applications in the business world without the literally executions. Likewise, the paper assesses Sun Tzu's work, which recommends removing the head of an insubordinate conscript to prove a point or to increase discipline. While the literal interpretation may have been acceptable in ancient China, other more symbolic interpretations are applicable to the business world today, argues the paper.

From the Paper:

"Very little is known about the author of the Art of War but there has been much supposition and speculation. The book was thought to have been an instructional manual for potential generals in ancient China. The Art of War could also be considered as an instructional science of strategy document. The basic philosophy has become a Chinese mental martial art called bing-fa which because of the ambiguous nature of Chinese Hanja can be translated into literally 'competitive skills' or 'martial art'. The manual is a series of nine chapters which provide insights into how to address the challenges and how to mentally prepare for both leading others or a methodology for one's personal success. Because of the title and the militarily based examples, most believe that the sole purpose of the work was to teach how to fight battles. Modern interpretations and adaptations of the principles continue to help individuals create an internal and powerful system for success."

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