Lesson 1 Open Discussion Post and Comments

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Arizona State University *

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WAR601S

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Arts Humanities

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Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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WAR-601S Lesson 1 Prompt 1: How does the concept of decisive victory relate to the writings of Clausewitz? Prompt 2 Does the concept of decisive victory harmonize with the writings of Sun Tzu? Post: The concept of decisive victory does align with some aspects of Sun Tzu's writings, as found in "The Art of War." Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of achieving victory with minimal conflict and resource expenditure. He emphasizes the strategic use of intelligence, deception, and understanding the enemy to gain an advantage. In Sun Tzu's view, the ideal victory is one that is achieved through superior strategy and positioning, often without engaging in direct confrontation. He stresses the importance of knowing both oneself and the enemy to avoid unnecessary conflict and to exploit weaknesses efficiently. In this sense, a decisive victory, as understood in terms of achieving objectives with minimal resistance or conflict, is consistent with Sun Tzu's principles. However, it's important to note that Sun Tzu's approach is more nuanced, and he places great emphasis on adaptability and the ability to change strategies based on the evolving circumstances of a conflict. The goal is not merely to defeat the enemy but to do so in a way that preserves resources and minimizes the overall cost of victory. #Lesson1 #Prompt2 Comments: The evolving nature of warfare, as you describe, aligns with contemporary strategic thinking. Identifying diverse centers of gravity, including intellectual property and digital intelligence, underscores the complexity of modern conflicts. A comprehensive, multi-domain approach is crucial for achieving decisive victories in today's dynamic landscape. As a counter point, Clausewitz's perspective on the use of force and the pursuit of decisive victories is not without its faults. Some could argue that his emphasis on relentless force and the pursuit of centers of gravity may oversimplify the complex nature of modern warfare. In contemporary conflicts, factors such as asymmetrical warfare, cultural considerations, and the impact of technology have added layers of complexity that may not align seamlessly with Clausewitz's traditional principles. A more nuanced and adaptable approach might be necessary in the face of evolving global dynamics. I agree with the notion that decisive victory is relative and can take various forms in today's complex geopolitical landscape. The acknowledgment of non-state actors and the impact of asymmetric dimensions aligns with the evolving nature of conflicts. Dr. Colin Gray's insights on the importance of objectively better armies, the lack of a guaranteed formula for victory, and the role of technology offer valuable perspectives. Sun Tzu's emphasis on strategic thinking, seeking victory outside of direct conflict, and exhausting the enemy through multiple dimensions resonates well with the contemporary understanding of decisive victory.
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