710 Quotes by Sun Tzu

All warfare is based on deception. There is no place where espionage is not used. Offer the enemy bait to lure him.

Thus the skilful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.

Balk the enemy's power; force him to reveal himself.

The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

If there is disturbance in the camp, the general's authority is weak. If the banners and flags are shifted about, sedition is afoot. If the officers are angry, it means that the men are weary.

A leader leads by example not by force.

Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

To maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished.

Be extremely subtle, even to the point of formlessness. Be extremely mysterious, even to the point of soundlessness. Thereby you can be the director of the opponent's fate.