Sun Tzu – The Art of War 10.23

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler’s bidding.

In this passage, Sun Tzu presents a profound principle of warfare and leadership: the decision to engage in battle should not be influenced solely by authority but by a rational assessment of the likelihood of victory.

Key Points:

1. Victory as the Primary Objective: Sun Tzu underscores that the primary objective of any military endeavor should be victory. Engaging in battle with the expectation of victory is justifiable, regardless of any contrary orders.
2. Ruler’s Authority: While respecting the ruler’s authority is important, Sun Tzu emphasizes that leaders should not blindly follow orders to fight if the conditions for victory are not favorable. A wise commander must prioritize the well-being of their forces and the success of the mission.
3. Assessing Victory Chances: Before deciding to fight, it is imperative to assess the probability of success objectively. This involves evaluating factors such as the strength of your forces, the enemy’s capabilities, terrain, and strategic advantage.
4. Avoiding Unwinnable Battles: Sun Tzu advises against engaging in battles that are unlikely to result in victory. Wasting resources and risking lives in futile conflicts is a poor strategy.

Modern Applications:

Sun Tzu’s insights from this section extend far beyond the battlefield and can be applied to various aspects of life, leadership, and decision-making:

1. Leadership: Effective leaders should prioritize the success of their teams or organizations over blind obedience to directives. They must make informed decisions based on data and analysis.
2. Business Strategy: Entrepreneurs and executives should assess the feasibility of business ventures and investments, considering market conditions and risks, before proceeding.
3. Personal Decision-Making: Individuals can apply this principle to personal decision-making, ensuring that their actions align with achievable goals and objectives.
4. Ethical Considerations: Sun Tzu’s approach also raises ethical questions. Leaders must weigh the moral implications of their actions and consider whether pursuing victory at any cost is justifiable.
5. Risk Management: In various fields, including finance and project management, assessing risks and potential rewards is a crucial step in making informed choices.

Ultimately, Sun Tzu’s wisdom in this section reminds us of the importance of thoughtful, rational decision-making. Blindly following orders without considering the likelihood of success can lead to disastrous outcomes. Leaders, whether in military command, business, or personal life, must balance respect for authority with a commitment to achieving objectives through prudent and informed actions. Success hinges on the ability to discern when to fight and when to refrain from battle, even in the face of authority’s commands.