Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
Drawing on ancient examples, Sun Tzu states that recruiting highly intelligent insiders as spies secures remarkable feats. Intelligence work is the core of warfare, the fundamental basis for all military maneuvers.
Han Feizi tells Duke Zhou subdued small tribes first. This strategy forced stronger foes Shang and Gai to surrender.
Mencius said: “The compass and square are the ultimate standards for drawing circles and squares;the sage is the ultimate model for human relationships.”