The effect of Sun Tzu's Art of War on the decision-making of Chinese managers and the resultant different behavior from foreign counterparts

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CHAPTER NUMBER 1: INTRODUCTION1

Background of the study1

Problem Statement4

Purpose of the Study6

CHAPTER NUMBER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW8

Conceptual Framework8

Research plan/strategy9

CHAPTER NUMBER 3: RESEARCH AIMS AND QUESTIONS10

Aims and Objectives10

Research Questions11

Significance of the Study11

References13

CHAPTER NUMBER 1: INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Chinese civilization is not only one of the oldest and most well known of all the civilizations, but at the same time, it is also known for following the traditions and ancient values in the most effective and efficient manner. It is eminent to mention here that the Chinese civilization is rich and diverse at the same, thus providing guidance to the Chinese individuals in all the aspects and various walks of life. The ancient traditions regarding management of society, the way of life as well as the war and warfare are still followed by the Chinese individuals and the same provides the basis for their behavior and actions.

As far as the Chinese traditions regarding warfare and the art of war are concerned, the Art of War presented by Sun Tzu holds immense importance and has served as the guideline for a large number of wars taking place in the country. ' The Art of War' is attributed to the military treatise by Sun Tzu, also known as Sun Wi and Sunzi, who was not only a high ranking military general and strategist but was also an outstanding tactician who compiled the strategies in the early Warring States period. Text of 'The Art of War' is comprised of 13 different chapters, and each one of these chapters addresses one particular aspects of the warfare and provides details regarding the manner in which the issues of war can be addressed.

It is eminent to mention here that the art of war served as the guiding principle in Seven Military Classics and it the same time, it remained the most essential and highly practice military treatise for more than two thousand years in Asia. The extent of fame and popularity of the treatise can be accessed from the fact that it was known by common people as well, and later it served the purpose of placing a strong influence on the thinking of Eastern and Western military, combined with the military tactics, the legal strategies as well as other business and management issues. The major issues addressed in the book include the planning and calculations before the onset of war, combined with the challenges posed by warfare and the plans of attack. In addition, there are details regarding the positioning of the soldiers, the provision of directions, assessment of strong and weak points, engagement of the forces, the variations in tactics as well as the movement of the forces is also highlighted in significant manner. Apart from the above mentioned topics and issues, there are other relevant and related topics as well, that are resented in the treatise in detailed ...