The most effective indirect approach is one that lures or startles the opponent into a false move - so that, as in ju-jitsu, his own effort is turned into the lever of his overthrow.
B. H. Liddell HartRead
The easiest and quickest path into the esteem of traditional military authorities is by the appeal to the eye, rather than to the mind. The `polish and pipeclay' school is not yet extinct, and it is easier for the mediocre intelligence to become an authority on buttons, than on tactics.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that appearances and superficial qualities are often prioritized over actual knowledge and skill in military leadership.
B. H. Liddell Hart highlights the tendency within traditional military structures to value outward appearances and ceremonial aspects, such as uniforms and grooming, more than tactical intelligence and strategic thinking. He argues that this focus on the superficial allows individuals with average intellect to rise to authority positions by mastering the aesthetics rather than developing a profound understanding of military tactics, thereby fostering a culture that may prioritize style over substance.
Themes
MilitaryLeadershipTacticsAppearanceAuthorityIntelligence
In practice
Example use cases
In a military leadership seminar focused on best practices.
More from B. H. Liddell Hart
All quotes →In should be the duty of every soldier to reflect on the experiences of the past, in the endeavor to discover improvements, in his particular sphere of action, which are practicable in the immediate future.
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The practical value of history is to throw the film of the past through the material projector of the present on to the screen of the future.
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The chief incalculable in war is the human will.
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Air Power is, above all, a psychological weapon - and only short-sighted soldiers, too battle-minded, underrate the importance of psychological factors in war.
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The hydrogen bomb is not the answer to the Western peoples' dream of full and final insurance of their security ... While it has increased their striking power it has sharpened their anxiety and deepened their sense of insecurity.
B. H. Liddell HartRead
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