Blog 4

The over-arching philosophy of Sun Tzu’s Art of War is to use intellect rather than force. “Ultimate excellence lies/ Not in winning/Every battle/But in defeating the enemy/ Without ever fighting. / The highest form of warfare/ Is to attack/ Strategy itself”. Tzu’s believes mental intelligence is a more vital skill than physical strength in war. In fact, a physical fight should not be the first resort, or to be resorted to at all. The philosophy of this book understands and respects that to win a war is more than death. Instead, it is careful strategic planning with consideration for the enemy.
The Naval Academy emulates Sun Tzu’s ideas presented in the book. As future leaders of our Nation’s sailors and marines, intellect is highly valued. We focus on building our intelligence to be capable war-fighters in all scenarios. Our strength relies on our preparedness and allows us to become better officers. We are forced to think about all scenarios and think of how we can best defeat the enemy. We also do not forget about the physical mission. At the academy, we do our best to prepare for the challenges that lay ahead. We are taught to not control our emotions. A leader has control over the welfare of his troops. “Victory belongs to the side/ That scores most/ In the temple calculations/ Before battle.” While defeat is those who score lower in calculations. Tzu does not allow pride to weaken troops. “If equally matched, / Fight it out; / If fewer in number, / Lie low;/ If weaker, / Escape.” Though escaping is usually recognized as a sign of weakness, the author points out that it is ok. It is smarter to evade the enemy when one recognizes itself as weak. It is better to gather troops and organize a fair fight. It is recognized that having a fair fight was highly values, today it is not like that. Our enemies do not hold the same values we do, but that does not mean we need to stoop to their level. The U.S. military continues to follow a high ethical code.
I think between the different service communities they are all well balanced in our readiness for the future. Though the emphasis between communities differs, intellect is held in high regard. The Naval Academy follows Sun Tzu’s Art of War through our careful, well thought out curriculum and leadership opportunities.

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