This master’s thesis explores the applicability of Sunzi’s military-philosophical principles from The Art of War to modern European leadership styles. Based on a comprehensive comparison of Chinese and European values, work cultures, and leadership models, the study critically examines how Eastern strategic concepts can be integrated into Western management approaches. Focusing on the compatibility of Sunzi’s teachings with transformational, participative, paternalistic, and authoritarian leadership, the work conducts a detailed chapter-by-chapter analysis of Sunzi’s text. It identifies both cultural limitations and practical opportunities for implementation. The findings suggest that while not all principles are transferable, selective adaptation—especially in areas such as strategic foresight, self-leadership, and situational decision-making—can enrich European leadership practices. The thesis contributes to intercultural management studies and offers new insights into synthesizing Eastern philosophy with Western leadership paradigms.
Anwendung von chinesischer Militärphilosophie auf die europäische Unternehmensführung am Beispiel von Sunzi
Lengauer, C. (Author). 2025
Student thesis: Master's Thesis