Blog #4

Cameron Douglas

The Naval Academy Compared to Sun Tzu

The Naval Academy teaches its students a variety of tools and tactics when it comes to engaging in military conflicts and pursuing military excellence. Upon entrance to USNA, students are taught the foremost qualities of any military officer: honor, courage, and commitment. While these do not perfectly align with the doctrine of Sun Tzu as outlined in his Art of War, there are a few outstanding principles which find themselves both in Naval Academy curriculum and Sun Tzu’s favored traits. However, after looking at both, it becomes easily to make the conclusion that military training and officer code has certainly progressed since Ancient China. The process the Naval Academy uses to indoctrinate and train its officers is much more effective than the Art of War.

In Sun Tzu’s, “The Art of War,” a few key attributes of warriors are emphasized. He makes a great effort to speak of discipline, command, compassion, courage, integrity, and wisdom. These are all great qualities of an officer, yet the distinctions become clear farther along in the text. He goes on to talk about the strategy of combat and the effectiveness of deception in battles. He additionally goes into great detail about the different techniques and attitudes a general should have in battle. It discusses the importance of having extremely competent generals who know how to operate with both small forces and large forces, at night and at day, and with certain goals in mind. Tzu certainly appreciates a diverse leader. He commends warriors who display great strength and fortitude and those who are willing to make sacrifice. It is very focused on the team effort, rather than being individualistic.

The Naval Academy does not assert principles much different than these. During the indoctrination phase called “Plebe Summer,” midshipman are constantly reminded that their own individual desires and needs do not matter when compared with the needs of the entire team. They are no longer their own individual; they are a member of something much greater. They are only pieces in a much larger strategy. Obviously, admirable traits are taught such as honor, integrity, courage, and selflessness. Sun Tzu would perhaps not be impressed with the quality of discipline present at USNA, but otherwise, I believe he would appreciate such an institution.

Although the differences between Sun Tzu and USNA are minimal, they are enough to show a slight distinction which has occured over time.

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