To fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.
The Art of War
The Art of War, Chapter 3: Attack by Stratagem
c. 5th century BC
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Cross Reference
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"If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him."
Strange & Unusual"The whole secret lies in confusing the enemy, so that he cannot fathom our real intent."
Strange & Unusual"Rewards for good service are not to be a matter of routine, nor punishments for bad service a matter of course."
Controversial"To remain at rest when the enemy is in movement, this is the art of war."
Controversial"He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight."
Humorous