Strategy Matters

Episode 1: Friction and Flow – Comparing and Contrasting Clausewitz’ and Sun Tzu’s Theories of War

15 snips
Aug 11, 2025
Dr. Vanya Eftimova Bellinger, an expert on Clausewitz, and Andrew R. "Dex" Wilson, a specialist in Sun Tzu, delve into the contrasting theories of war. They explore whether Clausewitz ever read The Art of War and discuss the shared strategic foundations of both thinkers. While Bellinger highlights Clausewitz's focus on the chaos of battle, Wilson sheds light on Sun Tzu's indirect methods. The duo warns against common misinterpretations and stresses the importance of contextual understanding, offering unique insights for modern strategists.
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INSIGHT

Clausewitz Responded To Napoleonic Warfare

  • Clausewitz wrote On War after the Napoleonic Wars to create a theory for a transformed, large-scale warfare.
  • His manuscript was compiled and published by his wife Marie von Clausewitz after his death.
INSIGHT

Sun Tzu Created A Professional Military Ethos

  • The Art of War emerged in China’s Warring States period to professionalize military command for much larger, deadlier armies.
  • The text attributes teachings to an ancient master to legitimize a new professional military authority.
INSIGHT

Sun Tzu Reached Europe Before Clausewitz

  • The Art of War reached Europe via an 1777 French translation and entered military debates by the early 1800s.
  • Clausewitz likely encountered this text through the Berlin military society and its proceedings.
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