In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact to shatter and destroy it is not so good.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the strategic importance of preserving and utilizing the resources of the enemy's country rather than completely obliterating it. It suggests that the most effective approach in warfare is to conquer the opponent's territory while minimizing unnecessary destruction. By avoiding widespread devastation, one can ensure the preservation of infrastructure, economy, and societal order, which can serve as advantageous assets in the conqueror's hands. This quote highlights the notion that a practical and successful military strategy should prioritize capturing and repurposing the enemy's resources rather than causing needless destruction.

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