13 Quotes by Lawrence Freedman

Although ‘Machiavellian’ has become synonymous with strategies based on deceit and manipulation, Machiavelli’s approach was actually far more balanced. He understood that the more the prince was perceived to rely on devious methods, the less likely it would be that they succeeded. The wise strategist would seek to develop a foundation for the exercise of power that went beyond false impressions and harsh punishments, and onto real accomplishments and general respect.

Strategy is revolution. Everything else is tactics.

So the realm of strategy is one of bargaining and persuasion as well as threats and pressure, psychological as well as physical effects, and words as well as deeds. This is why strategy is the central political art. It is about getting more out of a situation than the starting balance of power would suggest. It is the art of creating power.

The ability to persuade not only one’s people but also allies and enemies was a vital attribute of the successful strategist. In this way, strategy required a combination of words and deeds, and the ability to manipulate them both.

The point at which God asserted his greatness to his chosen people was when he arranged the escape of the Jews from Egypt, where they were kept as slaves. One reading of the story of Exodus is that it was not so much about freeing the Israelites from slavery as about asserting God’s greatness by establishing a people beholden to him and ensuring that they – and others – were in awe of his power. Under this interpretation, the Exodus story becomes a gigantic manipulation.

A strategist should think in terms of paralyzing, not of killing. – Basil Liddell Hart.

A sudden powerful transition to the offensive – the flashing sword of vengeance – is the greatest moment for the defense.

There are no endings. If you think so you are deceived as to their nature. They are all beginnings. Here is one. – Hilary Mantel.

Everyone has a plan ’till they get punched in the mouth. – Mike Tyson.