Sun Tzu – The Art Of War 1.12/1.13/1.14

Therefore, in your deliberations, when seeking to
determine the military conditions, let them be made the
basis of a comparison, in this wise:—
(1) Which of the two sovereigns is imbued with the
Moral law?
(2) Which of the two generals has most ability?
(3) With whom lie the advantages derived from
Heaven and Earth?
(4) On which side is discipline most rigorously
enforced?
(5) Which army is stronger?
(6) On which side are officers and men more highly trained?
(7) In which army is there the greater
constancy both in reward and punishment?

In “The Art of War,” Sun Tzu emphasized the importance of considering various factors when seeking to determine military conditions. He believed that by carefully comparing different aspects of one’s own forces with those of the enemy, commanders could make informed decisions that would help them achieve victory.

Sun Tzu recommended considering seven key factors when determining military conditions. These factors were:

1. The Moral Law: Sun Tzu believed that a ruler who was supported by the people and who followed the Moral Law would have an advantage over an enemy who did not.
2. Ability of the Generals: The commander who possessed the most skill and ability would be better positioned to lead their forces to victory.
3. Advantages from Heaven and Earth: Sun Tzu believed that understanding the environment and the conditions of the battlefield would allow commanders to leverage advantages derived from Heaven and Earth, such as time, weather, and terrain.
4. Discipline: Sun Tzu believed that the army with the most rigorous discipline would be better prepared for battle.
5. Strength of the Army: Understanding the size and composition of the army would allow commanders to assess their own strengths and weaknesses in comparison to the enemy.
6. Training of Officers and Men: Sun Tzu believed that the army with the most highly trained officers and men would have an advantage in battle.
7. Constancy of Reward and Punishment: Consistency in rewarding good behavior and punishing bad behavior would help maintain order and discipline within the army.

Sun Tzu recommended that commanders use these seven factors as a basis for comparison when seeking to determine military conditions. By carefully evaluating these factors in relation to their own forces and those of the enemy, commanders could make informed decisions and develop effective strategies for victory.

In conclusion, Sun Tzu believed that understanding the various factors that contribute to military conditions was essential for achieving victory in warfare. By considering the Moral Law, ability of the generals, advantages from Heaven and Earth, discipline, strength of the army, training of officers and men, and constancy of reward and punishment, commanders could develop effective strategies that would help them overcome their enemies. As Sun Tzu wrote, “Therefore, in your deliberations, when seeking to determine the military conditions, let them be made the basis of a comparison.”