The Art of War, Chapter 5 summary

What happens

1. Sun Tzŭ explains that units and signals make large armies manageable, while direct and indirect maneuvers help them withstand attack.
2. He compares the endless combinations of attack methods to combinations of notes, colors, and tastes.
3. Images of a torrent, a falcon, and a crossbow explain concentrated force and decisive timing.
4. He argues that convincing displays of disorder, fear, and weakness depend on discipline, courage, and strength.
5. Examples show commanders misleading enemies through concealed strength, shrinking campfires, and bait.
6. He concludes that effective commanders assign suitable roles and create collective momentum like stones rolling downhill.

In this chapter

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