Because of what we now call the "fog of war" (and Sun Tzu called the "muddiness of war"), both sides in any contest tend to see reality as they choose, through the filter of their own theories. Where is there hard fact? Which theories are really workable? Sun Tzu teaches that the truth is found in the "trifling details," that is, the smallest, most detailed solid evidence. These details may seem so small that they seem unimportant, but Sun Tzu teaches us that we must change our theories when the smallest solid fact that doesn't fit our existing theory.

My biggest criticism of the media has been its complete lack of understanding of strategy especially compared to the media of 60 years ago, during WWII. Nothing demonstrates the media's misunderstanding of competitive strategy better than their incompetent support for Kerry in this campaign. Though some of the media's members think that their support is worth 15% of the vote, their support is hurting not only their credibility but their candidate as well.

One of the basic strategic principles of Sun Tzu's philosophy is that either you are advancing your strategic position or that position is being eroded. This is true both on the personal level or on the national level. One of the most unreported stories is the decline of Europe, economically and socially.

After finishing my new book on Sun Tzu's strategy applied to the War on Terror, I have been reading about the concept of "fourth generation war," which defines terrorists' strategy.

After the main speeches tonight, Mara Liasson on Fox News pointed out that the Republicans have done very little talking about the economy. She suggests that they are vulnerable there because that is where the Democrats are attacking. Dick Morris in his recent column also sees the main split here between foreign and domestic issues.