The Foundations of the Science of War (Military Classic Reprint)

Colonel. J. F. C. Fuller

Published by US Army Command and General Staff College Press, 1993

About this Item

1993 Reprint by the US Army Command and General Staff College Press, VERY GOOD, Spine is uncreased. Gently read if at all. No marks. Binding is tight and square. 335 pages : illustrations ; 23 cm. . . . . . A pivotal military treatise originally published in 1926. Drawing upon his experiences as an officer and theoretician during a transformative era for military strategy, Fuller argues that war should be studied methodically, suggesting it can be understood and managed scientifically. He meticulously dissects the evolution of military thought, emphasizing the importance of establishing foundational principles that can guide analysis and decision-making in military operations. Central to Fuller's thesis is the division of war into mental, moral, and physical spheres, advocating that a systematic, almost biological approach - using analogies from human anatomy - can clarify why some strategies and campaigns succeed where others do not. A hallmark of Fuller's work is his formulation of the Nine Principles of War, organized into cosmic, mental, moral, and physical spheres, each comprising key elements such as direction, concentration, surprise, endurance, and mobility. These principles, based on combining logical trinities, underpin much of modern strategic military thought and were influential in shaping doctrine well into the late 20th century. The book remains valuable for its efforts to fuse theoretical rigor with practical considerations, providing detailed insights into offensive and defensive strategies, the qualities of leadership, and the enduring will of both generals and soldiers.

Seller Inventory # 2508250007

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Foundations of the Science of War (Military Classic Reprint)
• Publisher: US Army Command and General Staff College Press
• Publication Date: 1993
• Language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Very Good
• Seller catalogs:
  • History::Military