If the enemy forces are strong, try to subdue their general; if the general is wise, try to crush his willpower. When the general becomes infirm and the soldiers listless, their combat power will dwindle. It is of benefit to resist an invasion; security can be attained by internal unity.

War is a continuation of political its result can therefore be affected by political maneuvers outside the battlefield. There are two practices often adopted by military leaders in ancient China: the use of double agents to sow discord among the enemy troops, and the use of beautiful women to infatuate the sovereign of the enemy state.