Wisdomgol

I had studied military history and played wargames (real deal, war college style) for a couple of decades before reading Sun Tzu. So for me a lot of the text came across as all too obvious common sense. But this text provides insights beyond physical tactics and historical interest and has earned its durable international reputation: Sun Tzu wrote about battlefield strategy, but also about campaign strategy, the economics of warfare, and the motives and morale of both soldiers and the politicians whose directives initiate war.
This particular translation includes useful commentary referencing a variety of ancient commentaries, and draws comparison to more recent (i.e. U.S. Civil War) referents. Anyone who wants to understand both literal warfare and 'moral equivalents to war' would be well served to study this text and dwell in particular on whatever parts seem counter-intuitive or nonsensical: That's where a given reader will find challenges and rewards.
As a lifelong pacifist, I make it my business to study war with grim determination. The time to lay down that sword and shield and 'study war no more' is when we arrive 'down by the riverside.' Getting there requires the most complete understanding possible - and an educated appreciation of the fundamental distinction between force and violence.
Five star rating because the scale does not go any higher.

The Operational Art of War IV is the new generation of operational wargames. With more flexibility than before and with a new array of exciting features, it will make you relive the most iconic battles from the dawn of the 20th Century to modern day, including the ones that never occurred!