the sections of "the three strategies" which directly discuss military strategy and tactics emphasize quality generalship, swiftness, authority, the integration and balance of available forces, and the relationship between hard and soft tactics. the text supports the view that, once a general assumes command, his authority must be absolute. the commander must be emotionally controlled and never display doubt or indecision. he should be receptive to advice and constructive criticism, but his decisions must ultimately be unquestioned.