War is a matter of vital importance to the state;
a matter of life and death, the road either to survival or to ruin. Hence, it is imperative that it be thoroughly studied.

Sun Tzu

The Art of War

Why is a book written 500 years before the birth of Christ a mod- ern-day best-seller? Why do coaches, professors, and business executives read Sun Tzu's The Art of War? Why does HBO's Tony Soprano quote the Master's work? What are the marketing applications of the timeless wisdom found in this ancient classic?

The Art of War is recognized as the concentrated essence of winning strategy. Within Sun Tzu's principles are the foundations for understanding the strategic principles of modem marketing. Gaining one insight will lead you to want to find more.

The Art of War is the cornerstone of Eastern military and business strategy. Today, there are more than a dozen translations of this ancient work into the English language. Dozens more apply the translations to business, sports, and personal success. Copies of The Art of War can be found in almost every language.

The basic tenet of Sun Tzu's philosophy is that if your strategy is well founded, you will win-and if you have a truly great strategy, you will win without fighting. This Eastern emphasis on overcoming your opponent with strategic wisdom differs significantly from Western strategy, which emphasizes action (fighting the big battle) as the way to win.