What are Stratagems?

The 36 Stratagems are a collection of traditional Chinese military tricks and tactics designed to solve complex problems, escape difficult situations, or gain an advantage.

Originating from the Warring States period (476-221 BC), they were initially developed for warfare. However, their application extends far beyond military contexts, encompassing politics, economics, psychology, and everyday situations. They provide answers to simple questions like "How does a traffic light work?" as well as to more complex topics, such as the conquest of Avdiivka by the Russian army in 2024.

The stratagems are divided into six categories, each covering different scenarios and objectives:

1. Victory through Offensive Actions – Stratagems focused on gaining a direct advantage through offensive maneuvers.
2. Victory through Defensive Actions – Tactics aimed at protecting oneself and putting the opponent in a disadvantageous position.
3. Strategies of Confusion and Deception – Tricks to mislead the opponent and hinder their ability to act correctly.
4. Strategies to Weaken the Opponent – Methods to destabilize the opponent and reduce their resources.
5. Strategies to Strengthen One's Own Position – Measures aimed at increasing one's own strength and stability.
6. Strategies to Avoid and Resolve Conflicts – Tactics to defuse or circumvent conflicts.

Basic stratagems include deception (Stratagem 1, "Deceive the emperor to cross the sea"), distraction (Stratagem 2, "Besiege Wei to rescue Zhao"), and indirect action (Stratagem 3, "Killing with a borrowed knife"). Other stratagems, like the irresistible lure (Stratagem 31, "The beautiful woman"), are more situational.

A notable strength of the stratagems is their combinability, allowing for virtually any possible action. For example, the combination of numbers 19 ("Remove the firewood from under the pot"), 33 ("The stratagem of sowing discord"), and 4 ("Await the exhausted enemy at your ease") results in the principle of "Divide and Conquer".

Stratagems have independently found their way into various cultures and fields. In business, they are used for negotiation tactics, product development, or marketing. Leaders can use them to motivate their employees or outsmart competitors. In politics, they are employed to win voters, weaken political opponents, or conduct international negotiations. In psychology, they help identify hidden conflicts.

Even in everyday life, the stratagems can be useful. They help resolve interpersonal conflicts, make effective decisions, or simply manage daily tasks more efficiently.

An easy example is the stratagem "Hide the dagger behind a smile" (Number 10), which involves concealing one's true intentions behind a friendly facade to act surprisingly and successfully.

Stratagems can also be applied in reverse. The reversal of Stratagem Number 10, "Hide the smile behind the dagger," means having a soft core beneath a tough exterior. This behavior is typical of Japanese samurais and masculine lesbians, who appear tough outwardly but often have a soft and compassionate side internally.

Conclusion

The 36 Stratagems offer a rich source of wisdom and practical advice that can be adapted to various circumstances. Their versatility and timeless relevance make them a valuable tool for anyone who understands how to use them.

#36stratagems