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  • Published: 1 October 1989
  • ISBN: 9780877734529
  • Imprint: Shambhala
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 184
  • RRP: $25.00

The Art of War (Pocket Edition)




A new translation of the ancient Chinese military classic that is widely admired by military and business strategists—with an introduction that provides sweeping historical context, and notes featuring contemporary commentary on Sun Tzu's wisdom over the centuries.

Compiled more than two thousand years ago by a mysterious warrior-philosopher, The Art of War is still perhaps the most prestigious and influential book of strategy in the world today, as eagerly studied in Asia by modern politicians and executives as it as been by military leaders since ancient times. As a study of the anatomy of organizations in conflict, The Art of War applies to competition and conflict in general, on every level from the interpersonal to the international. Its aim is invincibility, victory without battle, and unassailable strength through understanding of the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict.

This translation presents the classic from the point of view of its background in the great spiritual tradition of Taoism, the origin of psychology, science, and technology in East Asia and the source of the insights into human nature that underlie this most revered of handbooks for success. Translated from a standard collection of commentaries on Sun Tzu's text by eleven interpreters, the work has been edited by Thomas Cleary to bring out the meaning of the principles of strategy. In addition, the translator provides an extensive introduction discussing the content and background of the book.

  • Published: 1 October 1989
  • ISBN: 9780877734529
  • Imprint: Shambhala
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 184
  • RRP: $25.00

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About the author

Sun-tzu

Sun Tzu (pronounced SOON-zuh) means Master Sun. His first name was Wu.


Sun Tzu was a Chinese general and military strategist who lived in the 6th century BC.

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Praise for The Art of War (Pocket Edition)

--Toronto Sun Times