5 Karl von Clausewitz Quotes on Planning

Karl von Clausewitz quotes on planning

10. ...in the whole range of human activities, war most closely resembles a game of cards.

    Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.

36. A prince or general can best demonstrate his genius by managing a campaign exactly to suit his objectives and his resources, doing neither too much nor too little.

    Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.

39. If we do not learn to regard a war, and the separate campaigns of which it is composed, as a chain of linked engagements each leading to the next, but instead succumb to the idea that the capture of certain geographical points or the seizure of undefended provinces are of value in themselves, we are liable to regard them as windfall profits. In so doing, and in ignoring the fact that they are links in a continuous chain of events, we also ignore the possibility that their possession may later lead to definite disadvantages.

53. Surprise becomes effective when we suddenly face the enemy at one point with far more troops than he expected. This type of numerical superiority is quite distinct from numerical superiority in general: it is the most powerful medium in the art of war.

    Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.

56. In war the result is never final.