Learning the Oriental Way of Conflict

By Sam C. Holliday August 14, 2018

The rich and varied Oriental Way of Conflict is not understood by most Americans. While in war there is much in common between the Western Way of War and the Oriental Way of Conflict, there are stinking differences in warfare (the gray zone between peace and war). During World War Two, the U.S. developed a Western army in China, only to see it defeated by communists using traditional Chinese ways. The Western Way of War fights for vital interests when the object is clear and there is domestic support. It depends on technology, logistics, firepower, direct confrontation, overwhelming force, and decisive battles to achieve victory – followed by peace.

Those who live in what was called the Orient (Turkey to Japan) during the 12th to 19th centuries have always stressed deception, misdirection, ruse, ambush, surprises, and patience. They want to know how their opponents think and how to cause misconceptions. They are concerned with psychology and strategic communication as they follow erosion strategies. They understand protracted conflict and cooperation (both interacting within a whole). They prefer for the enemy to give up as the result of warfare rather than having to destroy his armed forces with overwhelming firepower. ................ Read more