Books That Matter: The Art of War

By: Andrew R. Wilson, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Andrew R. Wilson

The Art of War, also known as the Sūnzǐ, is a classic Chinese text on competitive strategy. It has influenced modern military and political strategists, East and West, and is considered a major landmark in the history of strategic thought. In these 12 lectures, Professor Wilson leads you in plumbing the depths of the text, understanding its historical context and profile, while grasping its application to contemporary politics, business, sports, and more, as you explore:

• The Political Terrain of Ancient China. Dig deeply into the military and political culture of China’s Warring States era, spanning the 8th to the 4th centuries BCE. Learn the legend of the general Sun Tzu, and his ideology which comprises of The Art of War.
• Foundations of the Sūnzǐ. In the shift from chariot to infantry warfare, track the factors which mandated more complex logistical organization; examine the Sūnzǐ’s call for a new kind of military leadership, rooted in intellect, expertise, and professionalism.
• Integral Principles of Strategy. Across four lectures, examine the foundational tenets of competitive strategy, encompassing command and method, mastery of weather and terrain, management of energy and timing, and the complex matters of espionage and deception.
• The Global Reach of The Art of War. Witness how the Sūnzǐ’s influence spread across Asia, its transmission to 18th century Europe, and its adoption in the 20th century by military and Cold War strategists in China and the West.
• The Sūnzǐ in the 21st Century. Investigate how the Chinese People’s Liberation Army makes use of the text. Note the explosion of PLA studies of the Sūnzǐ, and their current focus on high-tech and cyber warfare.

Through a detailed and penetrating examination of the text, Books That Matter: The Art of War offers you a fascinating excursion into strategic thinking, as it has figured in human affairs from the battlefields of ancient China to today’s complex political and economic landscape.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2026 The Great Courses (P)2026 The Teaching Company, LLC

Interesting & Informative

Reading the original text in classic Chinese was a really unique experience. It brings a very different meaning to the art of war. Looking forward to reading it again with new insights and a fresh perspective.

Engaging, very knowledgeable author

I found this lecture series to be very engaging and enjoyed the author’s perspectives on the subject. He clearly explains the Sun Tsu’s historical relevance and limitations as well as the context around it and scholars interpretations of it without ever feeling boring. His spacing /juncture when speaking is unique, and I found it to be very familiar by the end of the book.

Would recommend as an introduction for anyone curious about the Sun Tsu