The article discusses the enduring wisdom of ancient Chinese strategists, like Sun Tzu, whose sayings are detailed in The Art of War. It highlights modern master strategists whose insights emphasize careful preparation and understanding opponents.

For millennia, the wisdom of Chinese strategist Sun Tzu has guided leaders. His sayings, most famously collected in The Art of War, emphasise deception, careful preparation and understanding both your enemy and yourself. “Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.” “Supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.” Today, a new master strategist has arisen, though his aphorisms emphasise careless blundering. “If you do not know what...