Tao of Jeet Kune Do
by Bruce Lee
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 July, 1993)
list price: $16.95 -- our price: $14.41
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

To watch Bruce Lee on film is an amazing experience. Those who have read Tao of Jeet Kune Do, however, know that Lee's prose can also be exhilarating. This praiseworthy and enduring bestseller (mainly written over six months when Lee was bedridden with back problems) compiles philisophical aphorisms, explanations on technique, and sketches by the master himself. ... Read more

Reviews (131)

Won't teach you martial arts, but you'll still learn.
I see that a lot of reviewers that gave this book low ratings seem to think that you can learn martial arts from a book. I will give you this warning now, you can't and never will be able to learn a martial art from a book, but this is a good starting place for beginners to see some of the techniques and ideas put forward in Jeet Kune Do. If you're someone with martial training as I am you can learn a number of things from this book. Most martial arts that are taught today are for exercise, fun, or competition, rarely are they taught for safety or other more historical reasons. This book can help you get back to those roots of your art.

I have studied various forms of martial arts for around ten years now and would consider this book an invaluable edition to my library, which is always growing and always changing and I still rank this book as one of the better ones in my collection. Inside you will find sections of philosophy and sections on technical work. The reason I gave this only four stars is that if you are not a martial artist or if you don't at least have some basic training, the technical section of the book is worthless and will do you no good. However, if you have practiced, you can learn a lot from the technical section of this book as Bruce goes over individual moves and how to use them to their best in a fight. He also explains how to close space between yourself and an opponent, how to mix up the rhythms of a fight, and how to make your attack and defense more effective.

If you haven't studied martial arts then you will find some sections of this book to be quite interesting while others are utterly worthless. If you have, however, this is one of the better technical manuals that can be purchased that is also veined with the philosophies behind this physical and mental art. It is a wonderful resource and a useful tool for any martial artist.

Overrated
If you want to fight like Bruce Lee, study Wing Chun or read a Wing Chun book.A lot of the fighting philosophies in this book are highly personalized, and a martial artist normally develops these kind of philosophies through training and experience.Learning these philosophies through the way Bruce presented them is a type of "shortcut", and will only hamper true development as a Martial Artist in the long run.

A few comments
One thing that struck me right away about Lee's approach in this book (as well as most of his others) is how he spends as much or maybe even more time discussing strategy and other advanced principles rather than specific techniques. This is because Lee expected those who read his books to at least have mastered the basics of blocking, punching, and kicking before trying to learn the more advanced technical and strategy principles.

For example, although the chapter on "Tools," in which he discusses the techniques, is 40 pages long, the chapter on "Qualities" is 38 pages, in which he discusses various principles like speed, power, timing, and so on, and the "Attack" chapter is 36 pages, which is 74 pages right there, and doesn't include the other similar chapters in the book.

There is so much material here that it's hard to summarize, but I enjoyed many things about it, such as the little technical tips like, "The essence of any hook is that the striker raises his elbow at the last possible moment when swinging, to attack strategies, such as "Do not hurl yourself at your oponent, but gain and maintain distance in a calm and precise manner." And also "Nothing bothers an adversary more than variety in both attack and defense."

The cover says that the book has sold over 750,000 copies in 9 languages, an interesting statistic. (I'm surprised it's not over a million). In addition to Lee's thoughts and notes on technique and advanced strategy, there is even an extensive illustration of grappling and ground techniques and holds and locks, an interesting technique area by itself that has gotten more attention in recent years. Bruce shows that he was ahead of his time in integrating this with JDK decades ago.

Lee also makes the important point that in JKD there is almost no, if any, direct attack--they are all indirect after a feint or as a counter-punch or technique--but that requires the ability to draw out an opponent, out-maneuver him, and a scientific approach.

Another nice technical point he makes is, "In all hand techniques, the hand moves first, proceding the foot. Keep this in mind--hand before foot--always."

I find this interesting in that in tai chi and some kung fu, the foot is expected to be just as fast as the hand and to move in synchrony with it--as difficult or as impossible as that may seem.

Bruce Lee only wrote six books, but if there's a bible of JDK this is it, and is probably essential reading for any JKD or any other martial artist interested in Lee and his ideas and what made him so great. ... Read more

Isbn: 0897500482
Subjects:  1. Fiction    2. Jeet Kune Do    3. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    4. Sports & Recreation   

The Warrior Within : The Philosophies of Bruce Lee
by John R. Little
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 April, 1996)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.47
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (11)

Dr.Phil ain't got nothingon Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee was always some one that I always Looked up to. He truly had a strong Vibe about Himself&the way he worded things&Put things into Perspective is still very Uplifiting to Me.He was a Very Intelligent Man&a strong Philosopher. this Book truly is Great for self-Esteem&Finding Inner Peace. a Must read.

Timeless
I would like to thank the authors for presenting such useful information. A few things that really impacted me were: 1. Bruce Lee felt that to strike back to people who are aggressive shows weakness. 2. He really worked his stomach.I have worked out for years and once I read about his stomach work I felt the affects immediately. 3. I love his thoughts on stress managemnt.I always kind of knew when I ate junk food that it was somehow related to stress.Now that I practice stress reducing excercises, I eat less junk food and I have no desire to eat it. 4. I appreciate his philosophy on total health. Like I said, what I read has totally changed my ideas on a lot of things. Thank you for an awesome book!

pathological and sad
Much of this book is plagiarized and recycled from the works of J Krishnamurti and other philosophers.That's not what I find so troubling about it, however.The saddest, most out of balance thing about this title is that it contorts Krishnamurti's writings to unabashedly promote demeaning, sociopathic violence among living, breathing human beings.That makes this a very disturbing book, indeed. ... Read more

Isbn: 0809231948
Sales Rank: 15432
Subjects:  1. 1940-1973    2. General    3. Lee, Bruce,    4. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    5. Martial arts    6. Philosophy    7. Spiritual life    8. Sports    9. Sports & Recreation    10. Body, Mind & Spirit / General    11. Lee, Bruce   

The Warrior's Edge: Front-Line Strategies for Victory on the Corporate Battlefield
by Colonel John B. Alexander, Major Richard Groller, Janet Morris
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 June, 1992)
list price: $4.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (1)

Valuable tool
I have read this book several times.I have used many of the techniques described in it to my advantage.The authors explain how to develop your mental edge making you a more valuable asset to your employer.It also provides you some insight to the capabilities of the human mind.I would recommend this book for leaders in the military, law enforcement, and corporate business. ... Read more

Isbn: 0380716747
Sales Rank: 141729
Subjects:  1. Business / Economics / Finance    2. Business Life - Inspirational    3. Business/Economics   

Spiritual Warrior: The Art of Spiritual Living
by John-Roger
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 December, 1997)
list price: $20.00 -- our price: $13.60
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (8)

The first negative review
Funny how all the reviews for this "book" habe been five stars.You would almost think John-Roger had a cult of unquestioning accolytes, in love with everthing he does, no matter had bad, or in the case of this book, mediocre.It is another reconstituted amalgam of New Age jargon and hashed over ideas that have been parroted by better than John Roger.Where did this guy learn to write?Hint: it wasn't in a college.

Great book!
I just love reading and using John-Roger's books.They have helped me so much.It is my favorite thing to do is to come to his books when I need an answer or help.They are so beautiful, loving and practical .....and fun too!

Spiritual Warrior - Experience Freedom of Your Loving Heart
The Spiritual Warrior Free at Last, Free at Last THANK GOD, I'M FREE AT LAST

I live in the South, Texas to be exact, we are the buckle of the bible belt. Most of the people here are fundamental about their experienceof God.God and the Holy Spirit is experienced through emotional flooding. With one hand they are beating themselves up with how unworthy they areand with the other hand they are pushing down the pain with alcohol, drugs,sex, work and yes, God to take away their pain and suffering. An endlesscycle of lack and low self esteem. Statistically, Texas has the highestprison population in the country. Dallas is known as the "divorce capital"of the USA. Country music, which appeals to the emotions, is mostly about"crying, loving and leaving". People here continue to try and fill theemptiness with someone or something outside themselves. MSIA,whichteaches to go inside to your spiritual heart, means they would have to letgo, fear of the unknown and the layers of shame make the idea extremelypainful.

In the nutrition work I do most of the women I work with are in the fundamental churches. They are taught that the man of the house isin charge of their spiritual guidance. They give over to the "man of thehouse" any right of who they are. Being invisible, having no identity,these women, over a period of years begin to get sick. There is a lot ofbreast cancer and diseases of the female organs. The men I work with suffermostly from heart related illness. Taking on the responsibility of everyonein the family and denying their own needs, they too become invisible. With a lack of self esteem, each person is trying their best to put out a "goodimage". A good wife, a good husband, a good child. There are more plasticsurgeons per capita per person in Dallas than anywhere else in the country. The need to be "perfect". Over creating emotionally like a roller coaster,up and down, gets real tiring...I know, been there done that, ain't nevergoin' back ...I was raised in a fundamental religious family. (Thats anotherstory)

Living in the Bible Belt, I decided to do some investigation work.Where do the Christian churches get their information? In reading variousbooks (if your interested in the books I read I will send a bibligraphy), Ifound , the teachings of the "Apostle" Paul. The Catholic Church is basedon his teachings as well as the teachings of St. Augustine. Further, Idiscoveredboth Paul and Augustine's philosophy is based on Socrates andPlato not Jesus Christ.

During the height of Greek culture andphilosophy, Socrates was the best known for influencing people with hisphilosophy. In his Book VII the allegory of the Cave, long before Freud,Socrates understood the workings of the human psyche.Socratesdemonstrated that the aim of education was to turn the soul around bychanging its desires. Desire having to do with the mind and emotions.Socrates was forced to kill himself because he was very pushy about showingpeople how they could change their lives.

His student Plato, who wasfrom a very wealthy family didn't need to work. With money and influence hetook over where Socrates left off.Paul lived during the same time periodand used the philosophy of Socrates and Plato mixed it in with some of thephilosophy of Jesus Christ and being a great promoter like some ourtelevision evangelist said it was the teachings of JesusChrist.I alsoran across some information about how Paul and some ofJesus's discipleslike John also know, as John The Beloved, were in disagreement about howPaul was promoting Jesus.

The teachings of Jesus Christ, as I have cometo learn is about LOVING, and forgiveness, worthiness to love and be loved.Taking care of yourself first, so you can take care of others.Each personis in charge of themselves. Free to be just who we are....because we are allfrom God...

The "Spiritual Warrior" is a tool back to what I feel are thetrue teachings of Jesus Christ, the Loving Heart. "Seek Ye First TheKingdom Of Heaven and all things will be given unto you. The Kingdom ofHeaven is within."Reclaiming who I am has been a long journey. Goinginside and peeling off the layers of fear, guilt and shame, to truly knowmy loving heart. Each and every day is more learning about what that is.Free at last, free at last, thank God, I am free at last. I pass on the"Spiritual Warrior" whenever and where ever I can.

"Happiness is an In-Thing" . Its inside, become a Spiritual Warrior, find your courage to letgo and let God, and yes, climb aboard for the ride of your life.... ... Read more

Isbn: 091482936X
Sales Rank: 260949
Subjects:  1. Body, Mind & Spirit    2. Conduct of life    3. Devotional    4. New Age    5. New Age (Self Help)    6. Religion - Prayer & Spirituality    7. Spiritual life    8. Spiritualism - General    9. Spirituality - General   

Way of the Peaceful Warrior, 20th Anniversary Edition: A Book That Changes Lives
by Dan Millman
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (30 September, 2000)
list price: $12.95 -- our price: $10.36
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

During his junior year at the University of California, Dan Millman first stumbled upon his mentor (nicknamed Socrates) at an all-night gas station. At the time, Millman hoped to become a world-champion gymnast. "To survive the lessons ahead, you're going to need far more energy than ever before," Socrates warned him that night. "You must cleanse your body of tension, free your mind of stagnant knowledge, and open your heart to the energy of true emotion." From there, the unpredictable Socrates proceeded to teach Millman the "way of the peaceful warrior." At first Socrates shattered every preconceived notion that Millman had about academics, athletics, and achievement. But eventually Millman stopped resisting the lessons, and began to try on a whole new ideology--one that valued being conscious over being smart, and strength in spirit over strength in body. Although the character of the cigarette-smoking Socrates seems like a fictional, modern-day Merlin, Millman asserts that he is based on an actual person. Certain male readers especially appreciate the coming-of-age theme, the haunting love story with the elusive woman Joy, and the challenging of Western beliefs about masculine power and success.--Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (164)

Interesting portrayal of philosophy
An interesting philosophy, though seemingly unatainable, which, to those non-warriors, would be the likely response.

This is definitely a different way of teaching a philosophy.Way of the Peaceful Warrior is a cross between a new age, spiritual, self help, fantasy book with a touch of Gandhi.It is meant to teach the lessons that Dan had learned in his life experiences, to impart a bit of a man that he names Socrates upon his readers through a fictional format.Granted the storyline is unbelievable, but the lessons are the core of what he is trying to get across, touching upon drinking, violence and other topics and how his philosophy views them.

In the beginning his style is sophomoric and forced, but as the story unfolds you begin to let go of the conventional comprehension of styles of writing and allow the story to unfold.By the end I didn't really think about the style of writing and instead enjoyed the ending.

I wouldn't say 'run out and buy it', but if it is sitting around or at the library, pick it up and give it a go.

Great Book
I made up a plan for my life about a month or two back, and this book just confirms me in that path. Everything in this book (allmost) is stuff that i have made a plan to do for the rest of my life...problem though is that i have been teaching myself to live this way through books, i am not lucky enough to have a teacher to show me.

It is possible to live a life like the one described in this book, but it is allmost impossible to do without becoming kind of "aberrant" as far as societal normality goes...But what fun is the state of normality?

There really are people that wander around the world that ARE allmost on the level of the Buddha or Christ as far as "enlightenment" goes, and it really is possible to strive for that state of mind, but there is no one single path to get there, the way is different for every person. This book is not made to be followed to the letter, but the themes, if someone really is serious about going this way, CAN be followed. This book is only an opening to where you want to go with this, only the first step, the very tip of the iceberg, there is far more to this than what is in this little book, but the value of the book lies in the fact that it shows that there IS a path that can POSSIBLY be followed by any person, if they so choose, it isnt easy though, it is not by any means the path of least resistance. This is just the doorway, the first step to those who are serious.

Some other books like this are 'Siddhartha' by Herman Hesse, 'The Hope Valley Hubcap King' by Sean Murphy (great "journey tale" of this genre, with comedy and satire thrown in, very very good book), and some of the stuff by Carlos Casteneda perhaps.

If anyone else really has the will to try to build beliefs and "habits" like those in this book, good luck in finding what you hope to find in the end, it isnt supposed to be easy though...then again "easy" is just a label.

If any of those who are like Socrates see this and need a dedicated and able student... =)

This book does not automatically change lives, you are not "different" just for having read it. If you want to make a change in your life for the better, you have to have the will to MAKE change, dont expect it to just float into your hands, it is not that easy.

Rounded
When I was 22 years old I went trough a lot of trouble. Part of it was depression and part was just growing up and not knowing where I would go and what I wanted in life. This book changed me - it gave me enough 'juice' to become more a believer in myself. As other's have correctly commented, there's nothing new in this book and I guess if you're not in a situation where you need to lay on something or someone, then you probably waste your time reading this material. It worked for me for that time in that situation and since then, I have grown and I would probably prefer different reading material. Nevertheless, it's a great book that will give you another point of view on your current life and it does it without judging you or selling you something you don't want. As for the spiritual freaks and the new age people: do me a favor and get real. I never thought I was 'spiritual' and I simply wanted to find a better way to life my live and this book does give me that without having to assume that we're all 'special' (of course some pseudo-intellectuals see the 'story' as something overly simplified - if you see it that way then again, you're not in a situation where you would benefit) ... Read more

Isbn: 0915811898
Subjects:  1. Body, Mind & Spirit    2. General    3. Inspiration & Personal Growth    4. Inspirational    5. Inspirational - General    6. Millman, Dan    7. Philosophy    8. Spiritual life    9. Spirituality - General   

Book of Five Rings : The Classic Guide to Strategy
by MIYAMOTO MUSASHI
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (28 May, 1988)
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $8.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

To learn a Japanese martial art is to learn Zen, and although you can't do so simply by reading a book, it sure does help--especially if that book is The Book of Five Rings. One of Japan's great samurai sword masters penned in decisive, unfaltering terms this certain path to victory, and like Sun Tzu's The Art of War it is applicable not only on the battlefield but also in all forms of competition. Always observant, creating confusion, striking at vulnerabilities--these are some of the basic principles. Going deeper, we find suki, the interval of vulnerability, of indecisiveness, of rest, the briefest but most vital moment to strike. In succinct detail, Miyamoto records ideal postures, blows, and psychological tactics to put the enemy off guard and open the way for attack. Most important of all is Miyamoto's concept of rhythm, how all things are in harmony, and that by working with the rhythm of a situation we can turn it to our advantage with little effort. But like Zen, this requires one task above all else, putting the book down and going out to practice. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Reviews (90)

Great Martial Arts--but that's it
This is a wonderful book on swordsmanship.It's not about strategy.Strategy is very high level (there are three levels of warfare: strategic, operational, and tactical).This book is about tactics.Strategy is how to win a potential war from a national level; operational refers to how an area commander (e.g. General Schwartzkoff) fights a theater; tactics is how you take a hill or defend your ship.I've got tons of experience in program management, have published articles on management, have scientific degrees and an MBA, and I fail to see how this is a management book.It seems like a HUGE stretch to me.The rating, unfortunately, seems to depend on what one expects from the book.I expected something that would be strategically useful (or at least operationally) from a management perspective.Sun Tzu's "Art of War" (one of my favorite books and far better, I think, than von Clauswitz) certainly qualifies.This book does not.

Not influential in his own time, but who cares?!

Musashi's now-famous 'Book of Five Rings' is simply not the most influential sword-fighting book written in Feudal Japan. The most important book on Japanese swordsmanship, and the text of the Shogunate's own selected shool of swordsmanship is 'The Sword and the Mind': available as a translation by Hiroaki Sato. Musashi had a very personal and unique style of fighting involving the long and short swords used together. Quite possibly his style developed through the influence of his father, who was an expert in the jitte: a parrying weapon held in the left hand. Even if wielding the long sword by itself, he recommends holding it only in one hand, and developing the strength to do so: he mentions how often you will have to grab enemy spears or other objects with your left hand while fighting, and how holding a sword in two hands limits your sword's movement.Musashi was fully devoted to swordsmanship, and it seems as if he spent all day every day of his life swinging his swords about: no wonder no one could match him! Musashi's main principles are: 1) Train as much as possible 2) Always be on the attack, and turn every defence into an attack 3) Do unexpected strange things to confuse the opponent 4) Attack while the opponent is in the middle of doing something else such as taking a step or breathing etc 5) keep yourself relaxed while fighting 6) Train to achieve complete control of movement. There are lots of little useful anecdotes he tells us about, such as how to keep the sun at your back and thus in the opponent's face. He also gives us a window into 17th Century battles concerning the benefits and detriments of the various weapons and so on. What clearly rings through the entire book is that this is the work of someone who is intimate to an incredible degree with the movements of the sword and the body. A great deal of his strategy involves timing and rhythms: catching the opponent at just the right moment. There is no doubt that these principles are of the utmost importance in winning any kind of sport; however, they are very simple principles and really depend on the swordsman having an incredible amount of skill and training which gives him enough freedom of movement and acute sense of timing to carry them out. One can sense the love Musashi has of fighting and the thrill he gets at his feeling of superiority at winning. However, Japan was not as impressed with his style as he was. It was the two-handed style outlined in 'The Sword and the Mind' that became the standard for samurai. I am not a duellist who's life is on the line, so I am not in a position to muse about why the preference remained for a two-handed grip, but certainly having more control of the blade, more speed, and a longer sword must have been factors. So, even though Musashi was undefeatable, he became so using apparently inferior weapons. While this is all the more impressive, it also means that his style is defective in its most basic element: its weapons! I should probably add here that Musashi clearly was acquainted with literature, and the fact that he was trying to immortalize himself through his book is obvious on every page. He was a great artist too, and his paintings and sculptures have been prized ever since he created them. He wanted to remain the best swordsman after his death, and this book was conceived as his means to that end. There is a great deal to be sure to be learned from this work - it is quite possibly the best book ever written on hand to hand combat, and it is very well organized. I should add too that where Musashi speaks of large-scale military manoeuvers he is speaking from experience, since he fought in and commanded in several battles. We however must remember that in his own time and later his style of two swords hardly had any students - and there are no fencers from his Nito school that ever became famous. While his very seemingly-practical 'hands-on' approach to swordsmanship appeals to us impatient moderns, the deeply introspective, psychological mind-games of Munenori's "The Sword and the Mind" appealed to the samurai of the Edo period.However, the samurai of that period took on the role of civil servants and their role as warriors became less and less important, so practical advice on winning battles such as Musashi gives seemed less relevant to them than spiritual cultivation.It is really a miracle that Japan's greatest samurai actually wrote a book telling us how to become as great a fighter as himself!This book is a guide to success in martial arts, and it will give your martial arts knowledge a touch of 'class', since this book is a true classic of the best kind: if you can quote Musashi in your teaching, it can only look good for you!I ought to note that Thomas Cleary's edition of the "Book of Five Rings" also contains the entire "Sword and the Mind" of Munenori, so Cleary's book would be ideal to buy!

Like poetry it suggests more than it says
Okay, so I really have no clue as to what compelled me to buy this book.I hate to admit it but it looked "pretty" and it looked "historical," so I got it.I also love the Japanese film classics starring Toshirô Mifune as the ultimate samurai warrior.Many of them illustrate a combination of charm, sophistication, humor, even comedy, with violence, ruthlessness, and arrogance.The comparative lack of graphic bloodiness tends to focus the viewer on the human dynamics and art of the situation, and while some of these classics have been translated by the Hollywood film industry for Western tastes, what transpires still has a "foreign" feel.One sees the action and senses that something going on here is different, uncomfortable.Upon reading a few paragraphs of the Book of Five Rings : The Classic Guide to Strategy, I understood why.

For one thing, I had not understood that the character in the samurai collection that Mifune had been portraying had actually been an historic individual living in a unique period of Japanese history.Why I should have been surprised, I don't know, since the exploits of the likes of Pat Garret, Wyatt Earp, and Doc Holiday became the basis for a good deal of 19th and 20th Century pulp fiction, TV series, and movies in the United States.In fact, the period in Japanese history that the translator describes sounds not unlike the "Wild West."The sod busters and the ranchers have made their peace, leaving hundreds of gunmen unemployed.The lucky ones find work as lawmen while the unlucky wander the country looking to enhance their reputations by lethalconfrontations to see who's "fastest on the draw."The winner may ultimately find a job as a peace keeper; the loser finds a spot on boot hill.In the case of the American western, the contestants use guns;in the case of the Japanese samurai, they use swords and other equipment.Still there seems something more to it. The something more, I think, is a philosophy, a school, an etiquette, even an art that leaves the Western mind a little uncomfortable.

With some of the techniques of sword work and battle strategy, I think that as Musashi himself informs the reader, it is very difficult to "write" how to do a mechanical task.One can only convey the "feeling" that performing such a task has for the expert writer on the subject.In modern times this facet of the learning process is overcome by photo illustrations, but even then only to a very limited extent.As the author points out, there is no substitute for experience with the process and practice, practice, practice.Even the very limited experience I acquired years ago when I took fencing lessons helped me picture more clearly some of the moves the author described.

Part of the difficulty in connecting with the author's experience as he performs the various actions of sword fighting may be that this book is a translation from the Japanese, was originally written in an older version of the language, and embodied an ancient version of the culture itself, one that is no longer available even to modern Japanese let alone a Western translator.A warrior of Musashi's time may well have connected far better with the similes he uses than a modern person.The unique benefit of this fact, however, is that a great deal can be read into the work.Part of this is the author's intention, but part of it is due to the very ambiguity of the work.Just as the author himself suggests, the reader who does not concentrate on the words but allows the mind to float over them makes all sorts of interesting discoveries.For instance a book on dealing with problem people suggested a technique much like Musashi's "To Know the Times," essentially to match the rhythm and intensity of the subject until one can gain control of that rhythm to de-escalate it.His "To Become the Enemy" immediately brought to my mind the individual characters of Civil War generals Robert E. Lee and his opponent George McClelland.As Musashi suggested, the enemy always feels he is outnumbered which means that a few may defeat many if they are trained in The Way.Or as Lee is reputed to have said before a battle, "The Army of the Potomac is a very good one, unfortunately General McClelland brought himself along."Lee understood The Way.He knew that McClelland's personality, or lack of The Way, produced vast armies of the enemy in his mind.

In all a very interesting and surprising book, one I expect to read again and again to mine for concepts.For a slender 95 pages, the author, like a good poet, has packed each word with a maximum of information because they encapsulate concepts and principles. ... Read more

Isbn: 0517415283
Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business Life - General    3. Early works to 1800    4. Management - General    5. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    6. Military    7. Military Science    8. Military art and science    9. Personal Growth - Success    10. Sale Books - Adult    11. Strategic Planning    12. Swordplay    13. Self-Help / General   

The Art of Strategy: A New Translation of Sun Tzu's Classic The Art of War
by R.L. WING
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 April, 1988)
list price: $16.95 -- our price: $11.53
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (20)

Brilliant! A brilliant piece of a complex whole
Chinese language and culture differ so strongly from American thought and culture that it is impossible to think that a single translation of a classic Chinese text can give the reader the complete experience of having read the text in its original language and context.RL Wing's translation brilliantly shines a light on the ART OF WAR.

I came to Wing's translation after having studied and studied the old public domain English translation with its copius notes and explanations.Wing gives the reader a tremendous insight into THE ART OF WAR, the brevity and compactness of Chinese language expression, the morality and thinking of Sun Tzu, and the different ways that the Eastern mind comprehends war from the Western mind.

If you are a dedicated student of Sun Tzu's ART OF WAR, this translation belongs in your collection.I don't know if it's the best or not,but it's a vital translation.If peace is your highest aim and the resolution of conflict without coming to violence is your highest aspiration, this book displays the wisdom of the great general in terms that clarify meaning for Western readers.

Explanation on Strategy & Politics
5 star for SunTzu's work
0 star for R.W.Wangs annotaion
3 stars over all

Sun Tzu's strategy is based on the laws of nature - both human and environment. His treatise is a universal template that shows the way to triumph over conflicts from interpersonal to international. The strategy follows a direct path that escalates until victory is assured.From analysis and projection, through planning and positioning and on to confrontation.Sun Tzu explains such techniques as the use of camouflage the creation of illusion and gathering intelligence.A true victory can be won only with a strategy of tactical positioning so that the moment of triumph is effortless and destructive conflict is averted.Sun Tzu pointed out "Those who win one hundred triumphs in one hundred conflicts do not have supreme skill. Those who have supreme skill use strategy to bend others without coming to conflict".

Sun Tzu explores the psychological motivations for power and discipline in `Art of War'. His work is ostensibly about tactics and day-to-day practice of warfare. As Sun Tzu was a keen observer of human nature, `the Art of war' is filled with advice useful not only for those engaged in war but also for those carrying on their normal lives.

The strategic and tactical doctrines expounded in `The Art of War' are based on deception, the creation of false appearance to mystify and delude the enemy; the indirect approach; readily adaptability to the enemy situation' flexible and co-ordinate maneuver of combat elements and speedy concentration against point of weakness. The best policy is to attack the enemy plans to prevent him from acting; then disrupt his alliances; creating a wedge amongst the people in state.

In the `Art of War' the underlying tone is discipline.The general has to spend considerable amount of energy in emphasizing the need for discipline. Discipline via fear is however useful only up to a point. There must be a motivating force for all people who aspire to succeed, whether in the field of business, politics, administration, government or warfare. Wars cannot be won by just mere strength but it is on a conglomeration of factors, which need to be accounted. Sun Tzu emphasizes the need to take the moral of oneself and its enemy, the environment and other barriers into consideration. The moral strength and intellectual faculty of men were decisive in war, and that if these were applied war could be waged with certain success. Never to be undertaken thoughtlessly or recklessly, war was to be preceded by measures designed to make it easy to win.The master conqueror frustrates his enemy plans and breaks his alliances; he creates cleavages between the sovereign and minister, superior and inferiors, commanders and subordinates.His spies and agents are active everywhere, gathering information, sowing dissention and nurturing subversion. The enemy needs to be isolated and demoralized and his will to resist broken, thus without battle his army is conquered his cities taken and his state overthrown.

Sun Tzu is a very vigilant and keen observer on human psychology.

The commentaries and annotations inserted preceding each chapter by R.W.Wang were lacking in depth; thought and any structure. They are more of an irritant than interesting read. I found myself skipping over his annotations. I found that his annotations had grammatical mistakes and I didn't find an introduction about the author.

Enter the Dragon
I purchased this book in its first edition when I was in my late twenties trying to climb the corporate ladder. I had just finished reading James Clavell's 'Shogun', was deep into the Akira manga and began dating a girl from Shinjuku. Needless to say I was a bit overboard on the whole Asian trip. But you remember the 80s, we were all thinking about the Pacific Rim. With that in mind, I took this book more seriously than the average reader might, but let me tell you something, it was profoundly impressive, and it worked.

The book is laid out in such a way that it makes a perfect blueprint for a year's worth of meditations. I rushed the process, but memorized each of the pages, and followed up with journal writings. A bit more extreme than the average bear, I confess but it made such a difference. Now, more than ten years later, what I have internalized from that period remains core. As I review the axioms, it's hard for me to imagine how I saw things before they became as self-evident to me as they are now. And yet I still find myself drawn to repeat the entire process as I embrace a new set of challenges at middle age.

I'm not the kind given to 12 step programs and all that, I make jokes about the person who asks for directions to the self-help section of the bookstore, but this is great stuff for the most hard headed pragmatists as well as the wooliest thumbsuckers. My recommendation to you is to take this book as a guide to meditations and study of the tao. The deeper you are into 'untenable' situations, the more profound the insights you will gain. ... Read more

Isbn: 0385237847
Sales Rank: 7412
Subjects:  1. Early works to 1800    2. Eastern - General    3. Eastern - Zen    4. History    5. Military    6. Military - General    7. Military Science    8. Military Tactics And Strategy    9. Military art and science    10. Philosophy    11. Technology    12. Philosophy / Zen   

Sun Tzu: War and Management : Application to Strategic Management and Thinking
by Chow-Hou Wee, Khai-Sheang Lee, Bambang Walujo Hidajat
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 June, 1996)
list price: $15.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (3)

Detailed application of interest to executives and educators
This book analyzed Sun Tzu's principles and theroies extremely well.It's a must for executives and educators.

Enlightening & Thought Provoking
It is very difficult to find any book that is error-free.What is more important is the contents.The Californian reviewer seems to be very biased against Asian authors!He obviously does not know the very highcredentials of the senior author and his works.He also deliberately choseto ignore the comments of the authors on ethics which were given strongcoverage towards the end of Chapter 7.Not only have I read the book, buthave recommended it to many of my American corporate clients who greatlyenjoyed it.I personally think that this is the best book in the market onthe applications of Sun Tzu's Art of War to business.The authors deservestrong commendations for their great effort.The mere fact that the bookis still selling today without any revised version since it was firstpublished in 1991 speaks volumes about its credibility and popularity.Howmany books are in such demand after 9 years?

By the way, the ignorance ofthe Californian reviewer is appalling and mind-boggling.I hope not theaverage American is not like him.What has this book got to do with therecent economic ills of Asia?For his information, I like him to know thatMalaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and manyother Asian economies are NOT dominated by the Chinese.Interestingly,those that are truly dominated by the Chinese - Taiwan, Hong Kong, Chinaand Singapore - suffered least in the recent crisis.

Unethical -- and poorly written
This book prescribes that being unethical (cheating your competitors, lying to them, subverting their trusted advisors, spying on them and harrassing them when weak) is desirable and indeed good strategy.There isno coverage of any aspect of developing one's own assets or competitivestrengths -- just of taking advantage of one's competitors'vulnerabilities.These strategies are passed of as "ancient Chinesewisdom".If this is Chinese wisdom, it certainly explains thecrurrent fall of the economies that they dominate!This is also a clumsilywritten book replete with grammatical mistakes and cliches. ... Read more

Isbn: 0201628597
Sales Rank: 347200
Subjects:  1. Business / Economics / Finance    2. Corporate Planning    3. Early works to 1800    4. Entrepreneurship    5. History: American    6. Industrial management    7. Japan    8. Management - General    9. Military Science    10. Military art and science    11. Strategic planning   

Sun Tzu: The Art of War for Managers; 50 Strategic Rules
by Sunzi, Gerald A. Michaelson
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 February, 2001)
list price: $10.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (22)

Very relevant modern adaptation
I will try to to keep this short.All the other 5 stars point out the merits for this book.In short it gives modern insights to a very important book on strategy.Shows that true wisdom rings true for thousands of years.

The criticisms that I have read on this book are true but are not really fair.This book is not designed to be a play by play guide for managers that have no insights of their own.If this book doesn't generate ideas for you without spoon-feeding examples and how to's then you will never lead a winning organization.You are a sheep not a shepherd.

If one understands Sun Tzu, if not a master as no one really is, they would realize that any example given automatically is rendered useless.A widely publicized tactic lacks the element of surprise, rule #19.

My criticism of it is that he doesn't understand history that well, at least the Revolutionary War.He cites things that are common misperceptions about that war to support his arguments.The rebels always employed unconventional tactics not just towards the end.Also almost all of the battles were fought conventionally and on open fields.This is contrary to what the author writes.Stick to business examples.

Also citing Tyco CEO Dennis Kozlowski does little to advance his point.Who could have known and I'm sure any future editions will strike this reference.

This book isn't perfect but if you are a shepherd and can generate ideas on your own then this book is for you.It will help give fire to the sparks you already have.Quit wasting time and order it.Assume your competitor has already read it and is using its insights against you.

Effective strategies for handling a multitude of conflicts
"Make an estimate of the situation" and "fight only the battles you can win," are but two of the strategic rules outlined in Gerald A. Michaelson's translation of "The Art of War". Chinese strategist, Sun Tzu wrote the original 7000-word treatise 2500 years ago, and today his view of military strategy continues to be studied worldwide, not only by military commanders but also by others who seek to develop a winning strategy. "The Art of War for Managers" is an excellent book, easy to read with translations of the ancient text boiled down to fifty short simple rules that can be used by managers in a variety of career fields. Each of the thirteen chapters serves to group the strategic rules for easy reference and study while providing a "Manager's Commentary" which serves as a contemporary example of Sun Tzu's strategic points. Michaelson also provides his readers with a section of detailed examples from managers who have adopted one or more of Sun Tzu's strategies, as well as an outline of the key concepts detailed in each chapter. In the West, we tend to have the attitude that we must win all of the time, or win at any cost. Michaelson's translation and interpretation of Sun Tzu provides insight that suggests that we must choose our battles rather than fight every battle, and that there are ways to win without fighting at all. Each of the fifty strategic rules in this book will provide the reader the opportunity to develop effective strategies to handle a multitude of conflicts, and is well worth the time investment.

A poor attempt at understanding a great book
Michealson's book was recommended to our book club and I bought it with great excitement and joy. That joy lasted only a chapter or two. It was immediately apparent that little research had gone into to the book's relevance to managers in business. The examples were less than helpful, the author's ideas jumped around, leaps of logic were offered as fact...I actually stopped reading half way through the book and wondered what I would do when the book club met.

Of the 12 people who showed to that meeting, none thought it was a useful read, I apologized for picking the book. Personally I have also read the AOW for Executives by Krause, another very poor read. If you don't mind a longer read, try Sun Tzu and the Art of Business by McNeilly. He does a decent job, but he too gets lost in his expertise of Vietnam military tactics and other armed conflicts, but he knows more about what he writes than others.

I wish I could say something more positive, so save your money, time and wait for someone to write something that connects the 13 chapters to current business problems. ... Read more

Isbn: 1580624596
Sales Rank: 113119
Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Early works to 1800    5. Industrial management    6. Leadership    7. Management - General    8. Military art and science    9. Reference - General    10. Success in business   

Scholar Warrior : An Introduction to the Tao in Everyday Life
by Ming-Dao Deng
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (19 December, 1990)
list price: $23.95 -- our price: $16.29
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (17)

A nice package, but definitely not without flaws
When it comes to this book, I am a bit conflicted. On the one hand, /Scholar Warrior/ is a very well-constructed, illustrated guide to various aspects of Taoist life and philosophy. On the other hand, some of the guidelines Deng Ming-Dao presents as "essential" to this way of life not only run contradictory to the Taoist ideal of wu-wei (non-action), but also contrary to a number of ideas the author himself states are important.

In /Scholar Warrior/, the reader is told both that the Taoist does not strive forcefully and instead flows naturally with life (wu-wei). Yet, there is much detail on how to meticulously plan the stages of your life from the present until the day you die. There's also a great deal of advice on striving to eliminate your "fatal flaw" - yet, if such a "flaw" exists, is it not a natural part of yourself and thus, a manifestation of the perfect Tao? I suppose the idea here is that all this advice is presented as a guide to the "natural" way that others have discovered - but isn't one of the core ideas behind Taoism that each must find their own unique way on the Way? This book seems too heavily centered on goals, which strikes me as very un-Taoist.

There's a lot of good information in this book, but there is also a lot that is simply not very usable. The sections on herbology, meditation, and the philosophies of Taoism seem very well done. However, a tremendous amount of space in the book is spent on Qigong, for example. The illustrations and descriptions are quite good, but this ignores a fundamental problem: you can't learn Qigong by gawking at illustrations in a book, and there's far too many steps involved to remember them with any effectiveness. So despite the quality of these parts of the book, they are ultimately not very useful.

I don't really mean to bash this book so much - there is a lot of good information in it, and it can inspire you to explore different branches of the Taoist path in more detail. The breadth and depth of this work is admirable, it's just a shame that a lot of it is very contradictory or not all that useful in the end. I'm glad I bought /Schollar Warrior/ though, and for one simple reason: it has inspired me to think more carefully about what my own path means for me. In that regard, it was a worthwhile purchase. Just be sure to approach this book with an eye out for contradictions, so you can figure out what the right direction is for *you*

Egotistical Tao?
Westerners who've read this book, without noticing and questioning the validity of the source, will simply agree and label it true Taoist, since it pleases them and is in accord with their thought. Isn't that wrong, because what if I find a version of the Bible written by a Jewish poet that is contradictory to Jesus' thinking and I will proceed to call it the TRUE TEACHINGS OF JESUS simply because it pleases me. Why I'd be screwing up the book itself. Although I actually enjoyed the language and Deng's talent for prose and rhetoric, I can't help but laugh at the psychology and philosophy behind this book. First of all, you will find his philosophy rather contradictory to Taoist thought. His ideal "Scholar-Warrior guy" (person skilled in mind and body), the emphasis he puts on striving to become the scholar warrior, and all the stuff he said in the beginning chapter are CONFUCIAN IDEALS. Then he goes off with his rhetoric about how Confucius had the title of Leader of Knights, implying that he could fight and think strategically and all the other B.S., then almost every person he mentions in Chinese history, he will tell you the exact same thing. He just sort of "magicly" attribute certain traits to men of prominence in ancient China, making them sound perfect.

In the very beginning of his book, he will tell you maximizing versatillity and such. Although it sounds great, I find his rhetoric absurd! He even says such a person strives to develop his skills to be good in all fields of study, even better than specialists in a particular field. First of all, that is a NON-TAOIST notion simply created out of egotism. Second of all, there is basically no such person like that. He probably just had to use his egotism in this work and create such ideas. His ignorance of true Taoist philosophy and ideals further contributes to the fact that indeed he is a Western man with a pen-name of Deng Ming-Dao (translated literally as Deng Understands Tao) who's only writing this book for commercial purposes. Then later in his book, he will tell you that Taoists are very knowledgeable men, and after they've trained their intellect, they will "abandon" their knowledge. I'd agree with this idea, which is only one of the few I would deem Taoist. While simply labeling Confucian ideals and his egotism and dreams Taoist, I did find the book knowledgeable on certain aspects. For the most part, the meditation exercises, the diet routines, and the qigong exercises in the book were all very informative. Just ignore the meaning of his proses and rhetoric and you'll actually find this book invaluable.

Egotistical Tao?
Although I actually enjoyed the language and Deng's talent for prose and rhetoric, I can't help but laugh at the psychology and philosophy behind this book. First of all, you will find his philosophy rather contradictory to Taoist thought. His ideal "Scholar-Warrior guy" (person skilled in mind and body), the emphasis he puts on striving to become the scholar warrior, and all the stuff he said in the beginning chapter are CONFUCIAN IDEALS. Then he goes off with his rhetoric about how Confucius had the title of Leader of Knights, implying that he could fight and think strategically and all the other B.S., then almost every person he mentions in Chinese history, he will tell you the exact same thing. He just sort of "magicly" attribute certain traits to men of prominence in ancient China, making them sound perfect.

In the very beginning of his book, he will tell you maximizing versatillity and such. Although it sounds great, I find his rhetoric absurd! He even says such a person strives to develop his skills to be good in all fields of study, even better than specialists in a particular field. First of all, that is a NON-TAOIST notion simply created out of egotism. Second of all, there is basically no such person like that. He probably just had to use his egotism in this work and create such ideas. Then later in his book, he will tell you that Taoists are very knowledgeable men, and after they've trained their intellect, they will "abandon" their knowledge. I'd agree with this idea, which is only one of the few I would deem Taoist. While simply labeling Confucian ideals and his egotism and dreams Taoist, I did find the book knowledgeable on certain aspects. For the most part, the meditation exercises, the diet routines, and the qigong exercises in the book were all very informative. Just ignore the meaning of his proses and rhetoric and you'll actually find this book invaluable. ... Read more

Isbn: 0062502328
Sales Rank: 122077
Subjects:  1. Conduct of life    2. General    3. Literature: Folklore/Mythology    4. Miscellanea    5. New Age / Parapsychology    6. Taoism    7. Religion / Taoism   

The Art of War (Pocket Edition) (Shambhala Pocket Classics)
by SUN TZU
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (07 May, 1991)
list price: $6.95 -- our price: $6.25
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Art of War is the Swiss army knife of military theory--pop out a different tool for any situation.Folded into this small package are compact views on resourcefulness, momentum, cunning, the profit motive, flexibility, integrity, secrecy, speed, positioning, surprise, deception, manipulation, responsibility, and practicality.Thomas Cleary's translation keeps the package tight, with crisp language and short sections. Commentaries from the Chinese tradition trail Sun-tzu's words, elaborating and picking up on puzzling lines. Take the solitary passage: "Do not eat food for their soldiers."Elsewhere, Sun-tzu has told us to plunder the enemy's stores, but now we're not supposed to eat the food?The Tang dynasty commentator Du Mu solves the puzzle nicely, "If the enemy suddenly abandons their food supplies, they should be tested first before eating, lest they be poisoned." Most passages, however, are the pinnacle of succinct clarity: "Lure them in with the prospect of gain, take them by confusion" or "Invincibility is in oneself, vulnerability is in the opponent." Sun-tzu's maxims are widely applicable beyond the military because they speak directly to the exigencies of survival. Your new tools will serve you well, but don't flaunt them. Remember Sun-tzu's advice: "Though effective, appear to be ineffective." --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Reviews (239)

A Good Read
I'm not really a student of military tactics, so I can't judge this work on those merits.From what I understand from the other reviews, and from the ravings of enthusiasts that I have heard, this book is one of the more important books covering the topic.This particular edition was interesting to me because there were a few examples of various applications of Sun Tzu's writings in actual battles from Stonewall Jackson to Hannibal given in the form of notes (I assume by Giles).Since I am more interested in historical events, than in strategy, this helped me understand the fine prose of the writer, even if I am not quite able to apply any of his "art" to my everyday life.I'm certain that a student of strategy would appreciate this work, as would people who are interested in Chinese history.I fail to see how it could be applicable to a corporate environment, but once again, that's not really my forte.I did love the concise method of the author, the easy to follow philosophies intertwined with the codified systems, and the colorful grace in which the subject was handled.The Introduction to this edition was also most insightful, and gives the reader an idea of what kind of man the author was.

Not an instruction book for ass-whoopin'
It is interesting to note that all of the readers see this as a text on war, and how to beat your enemies.The first part of the book should be a leson to all of the war-mongers out there, that is If You Go To War You Have Already Lost.The consequences to your own people and soldiers and even the land must be counted for years after the battle is done.Sun-Tzu explains this well, and proceeds to explain how to wage a war causing the minimum amount of damage and suffering.

A good price, but not the complete Giles translation
This edition of Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" (by Sunzi, et al) is the classic translation by Lionel Giles.For the price, it is a great buy, but it is not the complete Giles translation.In the full work, throughout the text, Giles included commentary by various ancient writers as well as his own explanations and clarifications of Sun Tzu's statements.

Lionel Giles was a curator of the British Museum, in charge of Oriental printed Books and Manuscripts.In that position, he was the world's leading authority on ancient Chinese writing, having read and analyzed more material than perhaps anyone who ever lived. Not including Giles's commentary makes this a rather bare-bones book, or actually a booklet.This volume does, however, overcome the major objection to Giles' annotated work which was that the commentary tended to muddle the flow of Sun Tzu's expression.By stripping away the commentary, it leaves a text so clean that it is almost poetry.

Unfortunately this almost poetic monologue can be interpreted to mean almost anything the reader wishes it to mean.To more nearly understand what Sun Tzu was attempting with his essay requires the kind of in-depth scholarship that Giles included in the original imbedded commentary.Without the accompanying detailed explanations, the bare translation is very limited.

To overcome both objections to the various editions of "The Art of War" you should consider also buying a second copy of the Giles translation that contains the complete commentary.Another alternative would be to get the 2005 edition that contains both versions in one volume: "The Art of War by Sun Tzu - Special Edition." ... Read more

Isbn: 0877735379
Subjects:  1. Early works to 1800    2. Eastern - General    3. Leadership    4. Military    5. Military - General    6. Military Science    7. Military art and science    8. Philosophy    9. Technology    10. Philosophy / Eastern   

Clausewitz on Strategy : Inspiration and Insight from a Master Strategist
by Tiha von Ghyczy, Christopher Bassford, Bolko von Oetinger
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (23 April, 2001)
list price: $27.95 -- our price: $18.45
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Carl von Clausewitz was a 19th-century Prussian general and isconsidered by many to be the millennium's preeminent strategist. Clausewitz on Strategy is a newly translated collection of sections from Clausewitz's classic work On War that's aimed at helping 21st-century executives and entrepreneurs grapple with the unpredictability of today's business climate. The Strategy Institute of The Boston Consulting Group, which pens an insightful essay introducing and connecting Clausewitz's thinking to the realities of today's business environment and which also supplements the book with historical notes and excerpts, thinks Clausewitz is cool. After reading this book, you may think so as well. --Harry C. Edwards ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A Superb Leadership Resource
It probably requires having some experience with business strategy before any of Clausewitz's advice can resonant with you.However, for those who have been involved in executive decision processes, Clausewitz's messages are remarkably fresh and insightful (almost two hundred years later).His advice is particularly fascinating in context with the current "Information Age."

Clausewitz's message is simple, but you have to be ready for it to appreciate it.Information will never be complete.Some information will be totally wrong.If you wait for perfect information/intelligence, you will lose (and your competitor will win).In the fog of war, you must find that "faint light" and have the courage to go toward it.Don't wait for the fog to clear, and don't wait for the light to get brighter.It will be too late if you do.

Too often in the Information Age, companies and their executives mistakenly believe that it is possible to get complete and accurate information before making a decision.However, despite vaste improvements in technology, information will never be complete, perfect, or even 100% accurate.Clausewitz understood this almost two centuries ago.He points to what true leaders must have.They must have the ability to detect the most relevant patterns among incomplete and sometimes erroneous information.They must be able to identify the goal (the faint beacon of light).Finally, they must have the courage to focus and align an organization's limited resources to accomplishing this goal.In business speak, business leaders must have a vision and must be willing to take risks to achieve that vision.

This message is hard for some people to take.I guess many are looking for a "how to" book that anyone can use.Clausewitz talks about "genius," and his concept of genius implies that not everyone is up to the challenges of leadship.It's a tough pill to swallow, but it is true.More than anything, this book affirmed beliefs I formed after years of observation, trial, and error.

Some may mistakenly believe that perfect information may not have been possible in Clausewitz's time, but it certainly is today.As a business analysis professional, I can attest that "complete" information is still not a reality.No amount of data mining, neural networks, or statistics can replace the qualities of leadership Clausewitz so clearly and eloquently expresses.

Information certainly has the potential to help make better business decisions, but faith is still required to act.Many of the information tools available today are not used, because our business leaders lack the faith to implement them (they're still waiting for complete information).A great companion to this book (in relation to information and decision making) is Against the Gods by Peter Bernstein.

A shameful endeavor in quick profits
5 Stars for Clausewitz
0 Stars for the authors

Impression on Clausewitz:
Strategy has been defined as 'the employment of the battle as the means towards the attainment of the object of the war'. Properly speaking it has to do with nothing but the battle, but its theory must include in this consideration the instrument of this real activity -- the armed force -- in itself and in its principal relations, for the battle is fought by it, and shows its effects upon it in turn. It must be well acquainted with the battle itself as far as relates to its possible results, and those mental and moral powers which are the most important in the use of the same.

Strategy is the employment of the battle to gain the end of the war; it must therefore give an aim to the whole military action, which must be in accordance with the object of the war; in other words, strategy forms the plan of the war; and to this end it links together the series of acts which are to lead to the final decision, that is to say, it makes the plans for the separate campaigns and regulates the combats to be fought in each. As these are all things which to a great extent can only be determined on conjectures some of which turn out incorrect, while a number of other arrangements pertaining to details cannot be made at all beforehand, it follows, as a matter of course, that strategy must go with the army to the field in order to arrange particulars on the spot, and to make the modifications in the general plan which incessantly become necessary in war. Strategy can therefore never take its hand from the work for a moment.

That this, however, has not always been the view taken is evident from the former custom of keeping strategy in the cabinet and not with the army, a thing only allowable if the cabinet is so near to the army that it can be taken for the chief headquarters of the army.

Theory will therefore attend on strategy in the determination of its plans, or, as we may more properly say, it will throw a light on things in themselves, and on their relations to each other, and bring out prominently the little that there is of principle or rule.

If we recall to mind from the first chapter how many things of the highest importance war touches upon, we may conceive that a consideration of all requires a rare grasp of mind.

A prince or general who knows exactly how to organize his war according to his object and means, which does neither too little nor too much, gives by that the greatest proof of his genius. But the effects of this talent are exhibited not so much by the invention of new modes of action, which might strike the eye immediately, as in the successful final result of the whole. It is the exact fulfillment of silent suppositions, it is the noiseless harmony of the whole action which we should admire, and which only makes itself known in the total result.

The inquirer who, tracing back from the final result, does not perceive the signs of that harmony is one who is apt to seek for genius where it is not, and where it cannot be found.

The means and forms which strategy uses are in fact so extremely simple, so well known by their constant repetition that it only appears ridiculous to sound common sense when it hears critics so frequently speaking of them with high-flown emphasis. Turning a flank, which has been done a thousand times, is regarded here as a proof of the most brilliant genius, there as a proof of the most profound penetration, indeed even of the most comprehensive knowledge. Can there be in the book-world more absurd productions?

It is still more ridiculous if, in addition to this, we reflect that the same critic, in accordance with prevalent opinion, excludes all moral forces from theory, and will not allow it to be concerned with anything but the material forces, so that all must be confined to a few mathematical relations of equilibrium and preponderance, of time and space, and a few lines and angles. If it were nothing more than this, then out of such a miserable business there would not be a scientific problem for even a schoolboy.

But let us admit: there is no question here about scientific formulas and problems; the relations of material things are all very simple; the right comprehension of the moral forces which come into play is more difficult. Still, even in respect to them, it is only in the highest branches of strategy that moral complications and a great diversity of quantities and relations are to be looked for, only at that point where strategy

Impressions on the Authors:
The authors should be banned from all literary circles and their works be renounced as a shameful endeavor in easy profits.In this text they have voided Clausewitz rich text; by presenting the matter in a haphazard; confusing lacking form style and sense.

Highly Recommended!
Though the editors freely admit that business and war are different, and that mapping one to the other is a mistake, this book seems to be based on exactly that idea. After September 11, 2001, business-as-war metaphors seem overblown. Many in business have stopped looking at competition as a death struggle. Instead, they treat it as a mutual effort to foster growth in their sectors so everyone then benefits from the resulting synergies. That said, this compilation, which condenses sections of Prussian General Carl von Clausewitz's major work, On War, is well worth reading, though dense and sometimes difficult to follow. Clausewitz, a fascinating thinker, approaches his subject with wit and clarity. By his own description, his real contribution isn't his analysis, but the analytical method he applies to problems. We from getAbstract find his approach clearly relevant to anyone struggling against an intelligent and resourceful opponent, in business, politics or government, as well as to those pondering ways to go to war. ... Read more

Isbn: 0471415138
Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Corporate & Business History - Strategies    5. Decision Making & Problem Solving    6. Entrepreneurship    7. Leadership    8. Military art and science    9. Strategy    10. Business & Economics / Decision-Making & Problem Solving    11. Business strategy    12. Defence strategy, planning & research   

Samurai Chess: Mastering Art of the Mind
by Michael Gelb, Raymond Keene, Michael J. Gelb
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 May, 1998)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (10)

An Interesting Book
Truly an interesting book to a person how does both Martial Arts and chess (As a side note a have been studying both now for a number of years). The theme was interesting because one of my Teachers actually talks like a chess person when going about how to get in an attack in sparring although he does not play chess, so I have seen this connection before.

As a straight chess book it would be on a beginner to an intermediate level. If you take into consideration the philosophies of the book though it becomes more profound. I have read most of the books they use as exerpts and found it to really help blend these two worlds together.

It has been said that If you read The Book of Five Rings once you will get something out of it. Twice, you will get something different again. Etc. These books (The Art of War, The Book of Five Rings) are also business books and found in this section if you go to Indigo. So not only is this book talking about chess, it discusses Martial Arts, Business and Life as a Whole (ie. "The Way").

If you can look at this book in this light then it becomes much more than "just a chess book", it becomes something of a reminder of how to live life.

Perhaps I lost a couple people there but it boils down to is there are some people who all they do is chess, this book could be an introduction to a new way of looking at things, and new philosophies. So Enjoy!

An Intriguing Reading but It Won't Improve Your Chess
This book is quite simplistic and devoid of any strategic learning value to help you improve your games. If you are a beginner and seriously want to improve your chess with easy-to-read authors try Jeremy Silman's "Reassess Your Chess: Workbook", Bruce Pandolfini's "Russian Chess" describing six games move by move, Irving Chernev's "Logical Chess: Move by Move", and of course Aaron Nimzovitch's "My System".

This Samurai book tells you to "Seize The Initiative" as one of their strategies. True, but how to do it requires you to work and practice, and the guidance of good chess authors. -- I give it two stars because of it's inspirational value and innovative idea. It's not a boring read, just not a very useful chess book.

A Good Beginners Book on Chess!
SAMURAI CHESS by Mr. Michael J. Gelb and Mr. Raymond Keene puts things in perspective for the neophyte chess player and gives one a basis of comparison with a familiar theme - the martial arts.I've poured through several chess books which were all too advanced and gave skant attention to a beginner chess player, but as a dedicated Judo and Jiu-Jitsu practioner, I was finally able to absorb some basic chess concepts through this book and the author's ability to draw a martial arts analogy. Yet the only flaw is that the Japanese already consider the Asian game of 'Go' a martial art equal to Karate or Kendo and they give those 'Go' players hard won Dan or Black Belt ratings; and this is hardly appropriate to Western chess, which is, after all, only a game! ... Read more

Isbn: 0802775497
Sales Rank: 188602
Subjects:  1. Chess    2. Chess - General    3. Games    4. Games / Gamebooks / Crosswords    5. Games/Puzzles    6. Psychological aspects   

Winning the Marketing War: A Field Manual for Business Leaders
by Gerald A. Michaelson
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 September, 1993)
list price: $22.95
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (4)

Winning the Marketing WAr
It is the best book on strategy there is and its originality is amazing. It is probably the definitive book on business strategy. There can be no doubt that this book is an unprecedented masterpiece.

One of the best ever written
I am a management veteran with an MBA. I have taken advanced classes in strategy and marketing, studied with Peter Drucker, and run through innumerable Harvard case studies. Yet I have never before read a single book that so clearly, succinctly and coherently organized the fundamental principles of competition and market strategy in a manner that one could actually USE. This is no gimmick. The material is well organized and the principles are sound. I have led companies in marketing wars before with success. However, I believe I might have made my decisions more decisively and confidently if I could have read this book years ago. Bravo to Mr. Michaelson.

Serious Strategy for Winning Marketing
Profound, insightful and resoundingly practical, Michaelson begins his work with a serious error. He refers to the book as Winning the Marketing War. It's scope is far greater. Not only a reference in marketing, it is a serious work for anyone interested in management, international business, competitive advantage or any aspect of business operations. A well thought through integration of both Eastern and Western Strategy, it entertains and enlightens both the master and novice. Other texts in the field (Guerrilla Marketing, Marketing Warefare, etc), offer a beginning prospectus on warefare and strategic application but Jerry manages to go further as he carefully explains the necessity of strategies and tactics in all operations. From cover to cover, the text is packed with one example after another. Not only do they vividly illustrate the principles, they make it an enjoyable read as well. For the experienced strategist to the new manager, this work provides inspiration for not only competing but consistently winning. Bravo Jerry, this is the premier work in the field. ... Read more

Isbn: 0819157813
Sales Rank: 2002942
Subjects:  1. Marketing    2. Reference   

Code of the Samurai: A Modern Translation of the Bushido Shoshinsu
by Yuzan Daidoji, Oscar Ratti, Thomas Cleary
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 January, 1999)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (24)

informative and delightful
Wonderful read, and unlike such weightier classics as THE ART OF WAR or THE BOOK OF FIVE RINGS, this one is readily accessible to the western mind.

After reading it twice, I came to think that everything after the first chapter -- nay, after the first two paragraphs -- was mere repetition. This is because all the behaviors and philosophies the author recommends would be the natural consequence if one truly were to "keep death in mind at every possible moment."

The book is a series of short chapters like "Loyalty," "Finances," "Personal Appearance;" each describing the ideal behavior of an ideal samurai with respect to each.

I can't comment on the organization or skill of Cleary's translation, though, since I know of no other version of this book. However I am inclined to think it is adept, since the nature of the work suggests the original Japanese would be extremely stiff. This is not the case with the English.

Gripes:

1. Note that this is a thin book; you can read it in about an hour. I was expecting something much thicker, at least the size of THE UNFETTERED MIND, say.

2. Oscar Ratti's illustrations will be disappointing to those familiar with his work in SECRETS OF THE SAMURAI and AIKIDO: THE DYNAMIC SPHERE. There are only a handful of them, and that handful isn't very interesting.

3. The binding of this book came apart rather quickly, after just the first read. Perhaps just my copy, though.

4. Sadly, the introduction by Cleary is completely forgettable.

So disappointed!
I was so upset after I finished reading this book.I wish it wasn't updated and they just kept it in its original version.If you are looking for a historical information of how the samurai lived and their values, this is the wrong book.Read Bushido: The Soul of Japan.The Code of The Samurai really felt like The Code of the Japanese Business Man.

Excellent work!
I teach martial arts. My eight year old son, who also happens to be one of my students, talked me into buying this book for him on his birthday. Since it wasn't a graphic novel and I wanted to encourage his reading I went ahead and picked up a copy for him even though I didn't think he was really ready for it. He not only read the whole thing, but he really seemed to understand the text as well. I was frankly amazed. Soooo, on an eight-year old's recommendation I picked up the book and began to read it myself. A couple hours later I found I couldn't put it down.

This is a compelling, well written translation. It is fascinating and, for the most part, still relevant to modern life. Many of us who pursue the martial path do so in part to build good character, enhance mental discipline, develop physical conditioning, and of course, learn skills for self-defense. Yet the package is not complete in my opinion without a solid understanding of Japanese culture and history. After all, it played a huge role in forming what we do. This book is a great place to start learning that aspect of the martial arts.

Lawrence Kane
Author of Martial Arts Instruction: Applying Educational Theory and Communication Techniques in the Dojo
... Read more

Isbn: 0804831904
Sales Rank: 5459
Subjects:  1. Bushido    2. Conduct of life    3. Eastern - General    4. Japanese Philosophy    5. Martial Arts    6. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    7. Philosophy    8. Samurai    9. Sports    10. Sports & Recreation   

Budoshoshinshu: The Warrior's Primer (Literary Links to the Orient)
by Daidoji Yuzan, Gary Miller Haskins, William Scott Wilson
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 June, 1984)
list price: $16.00 -- our price: $13.60
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (1)

Wisdom to live your life with honor in today's moder world
Even though the words were written many years ago, they still hold true today and we all would benefit if man/womankind walked the way of the warrior and upheld the Bushido code... ... Read more

Isbn: 0897500962
Sales Rank: 404406
Subjects:  1. Ethics & Moral Philosophy    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Sports & Recreation   

Way of Aikido, The:Life Lessons from an American Sensei : Life Lessons from an American Sensei
by GeorgeLeonard
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (05 June, 2000)
list price: $14.00 -- our price: $11.20
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (4)

Helps to awaken senses, but leaves you desiring more...
A friend found this at a second hand bookstore during the holidays and gave it to me for Christmas.I've been practicing Aikido for only six months and have begun to discover that I'm fascinated by both the martial and spirirtual aspects of the discipline.Thus, my friend's reasoning for this gift.

Mr. Leonard does a fine job of presenting some concepts which may awaken a desire to learn more about the philosophy and spirit of Aikido.Unfortunately each phrase or statement which moves in that direction is a bit of sales pitch to participate in his seminars or join his organizations.

Not being a California resident and lacking a total interest in sales pitches related to Aikido, I've spent some time doing research of my own and speaking more closely with my Senseis about Aikido's philosphy.

Buy this book if you want some inspiration to discover your own path.Otherwise, it's more suited to be the required reading for one of his seminars.

This book changed my life!
I came across this book in my travels and found it very intriguing. I found the idea of Aikido interesting and investigated further. I found Mr. Leonard gave a great over view to the philosophies of the founder on Aikido. He incorporated Aikido into your everyday life situations and it has truly changed my life. I now practice in the Martial Way of Aikido and my life has not been the same ever since. Thank you Mr. Leonard.

Not worth one star.
After receiving mastership in Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki. I started exploring other Japanese disciplines dealing with Ki (Lifeforce Energy).

This book crossed my path, and to say I was disappointed would be an understatement.

In my opinion this book was writen solely to enlist new students.

The author gives some background of Aikido and it's founder O Sensei. Unfortunately Mr Leonard spends most of his time talking about the Esalen Institute, and LET (Leonard Energy Training (if memory serves)).

If you have questions or comments; E-Mail me. Two Bears.

Wah doh Ogedoda. ... Read more

Isbn: 0452279720
Sales Rank: 34646
Subjects:  1. Eastern - General    2. General    3. Martial Arts - Aikido    4. Philosophy    5. Self-Help    6. Sports & Recreation    7. Self-Help / General