In *The Art of War* (c. 5th century BCE), Sun Tzu repeatedly emphasizes that victory belongs to those who calculate, prepare, and foresee. He notes that a general wins not through brute courage alone but by assessing terrain, timing, and the enemy’s intentions. Fear naturally arises in the face of unknowns and potential defeat; however, Sun Tzu would have us respond by sharpening our analysis. Rather than retreat in panic, the wise commander uses apprehension to probe vulnerabilities, strengthen supply lines, and refine tactics, transforming dread into disciplined readiness. [...]
