It is the rule in war, if our forces are ten to the enemy’s one, to surround him; if five to one, to attack him; if twice as numerous, to divide our army into two.
Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is a seminal work on military strategy that has influenced not only warfare but also various other fields of study. In Chapter 3, Sun Tzu discusses various tactics and strategies for attacking and defeating the enemy. One of the important rules he outlines in 3.8 is the principle of numerical superiority.
According to Sun Tzu, if your forces outnumber the enemy by ten to one, it is best to surround them. This tactic is effective as it prevents the enemy from escaping and limits their ability to maneuver. However, if your forces are only five to one, attacking the enemy directly is the best option. In this scenario, the enemy may still have some capacity to maneuver, so attacking them directly can prevent them from getting away.
If your forces are only twice as numerous as the enemy, it is best to divide your army into two groups. This strategy allows you to attack the enemy from two sides, which can be highly effective. Moreover, it increases the chances of success, as if one group is not successful, the other can continue the attack.
The principle of numerical superiority is not just about having more soldiers on the battlefield. It is also about having more resources, such as weapons, food, and equipment. This principle underscores the importance of preparation and planning. Before engaging in battle, a wise general must ensure that his troops have the necessary resources to carry out the mission.
In modern times, the principle of numerical superiority has been applied in various fields. For example, in business, companies with larger resources and manpower have an advantage over smaller competitors. Similarly, in sports, teams with more players or better resources have a higher chance of winning.
Overall, Sun Tzu’s principle of numerical superiority emphasizes the importance of strategy and preparation. By having more resources and troops, a wise general can increase the chances of victory, whether in warfare or in other fields of endeavor.
Geoff Willis is an accomplished restaurateur and chef with over two decades in the culinary world, blending his passion for gastronomy with an extensive study of philosophy. Known for his innovative approach to cooking and deep commitment to sustainable practices, Geoff combines the art of flavors with philosophical insights, offering readers a unique perspective on food and life.