The Thirty-Six Stratagems

For centuries, The Thirty-Six Stratagems has been a secret weapon of generals, diplomats, and master negotiators. This compact, aphoristic text — one of China's great contributions to practical philosophy — lays out a toolkit of cunning maneuvers and timeless tactics for navigating conflict and competition. Now, in this Modern Reader's Edition, the classic is translated into clear, vigorous English, making its wisdom immediately accessible to today's readers. Each stratagem is presented with its original Chinese maxim, a straightforward explanation, and illuminating historical examples that reveal how a 'borrowed knife' can kill an enemy, or how to 'feign madness but keep your balance.' Whether you're a student of strategy, a leader, or simply curious about the art of getting ahead in a complicated world, these thirty-six stratagems will sharpen your thinking and deepen your understanding of human nature. Part of The Modern Wisdom Library.