The 36 Stratagems, in Detail

Disciplines > Warfare > Principles > The 36 Stratagems, in Detail

Rather than being a work authored by a single person, the 36 Stratagems is a collection of warfare wisdom that was derived over many centuries of inter-state conflict within China.

Many of the stratagems involve deception of some kind and may be used in changing minds, though of course the values of modern society act to moderate effective action. Having said this, where the alternative is harmful conflict, deception may be the best alternative.

This is only an approximate grouping and stratagems from any group can be used as appropriate. The greatest ability of all is probably flexibility in being able to adapt and innovate at will.

Group 1: Stratagems When Commanding Superiority

Group 2: Stratagems for Confrontation

Group 3: Stratagems for Attack

Group 4: Stratagems for Confused Situations

Group 5: Stratagems for Gaining Ground

Group 6: Stratagems for Desperate Straits

See also

The Annotated Art of War, The Six Secret Teachings