In the Study of Sun Tzu’s Strategic Catechism and Contemporary Calculated Tactics: Locating the Ancient in the Modern

Abstract

Throughout history, Sun Tzu‟s The Art of War has been regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces in the history of military strategy. It is also one of the most read in Strategic Studies. Of greater interest is the fact that as it is relevant to the military, so it is to the civilians who are engaged in calculated actions in their daily activities. Although a masterpiece of the old, the book and its content remain as recurrent as they were. Imperatively, therefore, this paper takes a critical look at the arguments and strategic advice of Sun Tzu with particular reference to their relevance in contemporary military formations, politics, economy, relationships, etc. Thus, for effective analysis, Power Theory, secondary data and content analytical approach were used. The paper argues that, in as much as, The Art of War was written centuries ago, that its relevance is still very current and applicable to all facets of life.