Dividing Quote by Sun Tzu
“The control of a large force is the same principle as the control of a few men: it is merely a question of dividing up their numbers.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of War, 5th century BC
Control of many forces mirrors control of a few: both rely on strategic division and allocation.
In simple terms: Managing large groups is like managing small ones: divide them.
Key Takeaway
Divide and allocate resources strategically.
Themes
strategy
leadership
division
resource management
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
Type
theoretical
historical
When to use this quote
- army command
- project management
- crowd control
- political leadership
Key Concepts
military tactics
organizational theory
systems thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How does division aid control?
- What risks arise from over‑division?
A Different Perspective
Dividing can cause fragmentation if not coordinated.
![“More than all, and above all, [George] Washington was master of himself. If there be one quality more than another in his character which may exercise a useful control over the men of the present hour, it is the total disregard of self when in the most elevated positions for influence and example.” quote by Charles Francis Adams, Sr](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da9/charles-francis-adams-sr-70316_character_more-than-all-and-above-all-george-washi_920377.jpg)
![“The PEOPLE being regarded as the essential part of the State, and FOOD as the people's heaven, is it not right that those in authority should value and be careful of both?"]” quote by Sun Tzu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1e5/sun-tzu-283_food_the-people-being-regarded-as-the-essenti_16787.jpg)
