Victory is produced by a methodological chain: Measurement → Estimation of quantity → Calculation → Balancing of chances → Victory, grounded in the factor of Earth.
By Sun Tzu, from L'Art de la guerre
Key Arguments
- He enumerates a stepwise sequence from assessing the ground to achieving victory
- Each step causally depends on the previous, beginning with Earth (terrain/space) generating Measurement
Source Quotes
17. In respect of military method, we have, firstly, Measurement; secondly, Estimation of quantity; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly, Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory. 18.
18. Measurement owes its existence to Earth; Estimation of quantity to Measurement; Calculation to Estimation of quantity; Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of chances. 19.
Key Concepts
- In respect of military method, we have, firstly, Measurement; secondly, Estimation of quantity; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly, Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory.
- Measurement owes its existence to Earth; Estimation of quantity to Measurement; Calculation to Estimation of quantity; Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of chances.
Context
iv. Tactical Dispositions (lines 229–271)