Stratagems for Confused Situations

Stratagem group

Description

This group has a focus on situations where there is uncertainty, chaos and changing circumstances.

Stratagems here include the management of relationships, including making new alliances and breaking other connections. They also include techniques around negotiation, threats, manipulation, use of third parties and other ploys to cope with and use the confusion.

Stratagems nineteen to thirty-six are all based around situations where you have a weaker traditional force than your enemy. While this is a disadvantage in some ways, it can be turned to your advantage, for example in the speed and mobility you can use. It also means you have to be innovative, and it is innovation, rather than force, that has been at the root of many asymmetric wars.

Number

This is the third stratagem group of six.

Alternative names

Stratagems to Confuse the Enemy

Chaos Stratagems

Discussion

In what has been called 'the fog of war', the carefully-laid plans can become less certain as conflicting information and awkward problems make decisions unclear.

Confusion, however, can be good when it affects your enemy and when you are better able to cope with uncertainty. In fact you can create confusion in order to gain advantage.

Confusion is a time that tests leaders, particularly those who grew up in calmer times. When times are troubled, new leaders may emerge who are better able to use and control chaos.

Quick links

Stratagems for Confused Situations

Stratagems

Stratagem group

Description

Number

Alternative names

Discussion

See also

Site Menu

You can buy books here

Quick links

Disciplines

Techniques

Principles

Explanations

Theories

And

Site Menu

Quick links

Disciplines

Techniques

Principles

Explanations

Theories

And