Leadership essentials from Sun Zi's Art of War and the Bhagavad Gita

Abstract

Purpose

This paper's aim is to compare and contrast two ancient philosophies to determine their contribution to leadership. Fresh aspects to inclusiveness and resilience in leadership are to be examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a conceptual analysis as the basis for future empirical testing. The respective contribution of Sun Zi's Art of War and the Bhagavad Gita to academic and practitioner literature is examined before key traits on leadership that are common in both documents are collated. These features are then investigated on their practical application to business. Based on the research gaps and shortcomings identified, new areas for further research are recommended.

Findings

These two ancient texts have contrasting ideas, yet there are areas of complementarity to suggest that Indian and Chinese leaders can learn from each other.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may explore how in different forms of ownership including joint ventures or host country operations the perspectives of leadership can impact on the behaviour of managers towards employees of a different culture.

Practical implications

Both Chinese and Indian cultures are growing in importance. This paper helps leaders from each culture to better understand the different mind‐sets.

Originality/value

Previous research has focused on the contrasts whereas this research focuses on the synergies between the Art of War and the Bhagavad Gita.

Citation

Chow Hoi Hee, C. and Gurd, B. (2010), "Leadership essentials from Sun Zi's Art of War and the Bhagavad Gita", Journal of Management History, Vol. 16 No. 3, pp. 396-414. https://doi.org/10.1108/17511341011051270