What is a key principle of Sun Tzu's philosophy in warfare?

A key principle of Sun Tzu's philosophy in warfare is to disrupt the enemy's alliances. This strategy focuses on the idea that weakening the bonds and support systems that an adversary relies on can be more effective than direct military confrontation. By targeting alliances, a commander can create disarray within the enemy’s ranks, making them vulnerable to defeat without the need for significant force or prolonged conflict.

In the broader context of Sun Tzu’s teachings, he emphasizes deception, strategy, and understanding the importance of psychological factors in warfare. Disruption of alliances can cause confusion and mistrust among enemies, leading to fractures that can be exploited efficiently. This aligns with the principle of winning without fighting, which is a prominent theme in Sun Tzu's work.

While attacking an army, laying siege to fortified cities, or engaging in prolonged battles may be tactics used in warfare, they do not encapsulate the broader strategic thinking advocated by Sun Tzu. He believed that the best victories are achieved swiftly and with minimal cost, making the disruption of alliances a preferred method for gaining the upper hand in a conflict.