Overview

A framework for assessing the viability of military campaigns against nomadic or highly mobile enemies, weighing costs against potential gains.

Assessment Criteria

1. Distance Analysis: Evaluate the logistics of fighting at a distance

   • "千里而战，兵不获利" (Fighting at a thousand li, troops gain no advantage)

2. Enemy Characteristics: Assess the adversary's nature

   • Mobility: "迁徙鸟举" (migrate like birds taking flight)
   • Unpredictability: "怀禽兽之心" (harboring the heart of wild beasts)
   • Difficulty to control: "难得而制" (hard to capture and control)

3. Territory Value: Evaluate what would be gained

   • Land: "得其地不足以为广" (gaining their land is insufficient for expansion)
   • Population: "有其众不足以为彊" (possessing their people is insufficient for strength)

4. Force Degradation: Consider how your forces weaken over distance

   • "人马罢" (men and horses become exhausted)
   • Enemy fights fresh against your depleted forces

5. Diminishing Returns: Apply the crossbow metaphor

   • "彊弩之极，矢不能穿鲁缟" (At its limit, a strong crossbow's arrow cannot pierce fine silk)
   • Initial strength degrades over distance and time

Decision Framework

• If enemy is mobile, territory has low value, and distance is great → favor diplomacy/alliance
• If engagement is unavoidable → ensure close-range, fresh forces

Expected Outcomes

• Avoid costly campaigns with low probability of success
• Preserve military resources for more favorable engagements

Verification

• Confirm all five assessment criteria (distance, enemy characteristics, territory value, force degradation, diminishing returns) have been evaluated
• Validate that the decision framework conclusion aligns with the evidence gathered
• Check that alternative options (diplomacy, alliance) were considered before recommending military action