Fighting Power
In 'Fighting Power', Martin Van Creveld delves into the complex relationship between military strength and political strategy. He examines historical battles and modern warfare, revealing how power dynamics shape conflicts and outcomes. Van Creveld argues that true strength lies not just in numbers or technology, but in the ability to adapt and innovate. This thought-provoking analysis challenges conventional wisdom, enticing readers to rethink their understanding of warfare. Are you prepared to uncover the secrets of effective military strategy?
By Martin Van Creveld
Published: 1982
"In the struggle for survival and dominance, power is not merely a resource, but a dynamic force reshaping the very fabric of society."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Analyses the performance of two key parties engaged in fighting during World War II.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Fighting Power
About the Author
Martin Van Creveld
Martin Van Creveld is a prominent Israeli military historian and theorist, recognized for his extensive contributions to military studies. Born in 1946, he has written numerous influential books, including 'The Transformation of War', 'Command in War', and 'The Culture of War'. His works often challenge conventional military thought, emphasizing the importance of social and political structures in warfare. Van Creveld's writing style is analytical and thought-provoking, blending historical analysis with contemporary relevance, making him a respected figure among military professionals and scholars alike.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Martin Van Creveld
- Published
- January 1982
- Publisher
- Praeger
- ISBN
- 0313091579
- Language
- English
- Pages
- N/A
- Genres
- HistoryPolitical HistoryMilitary HistoryPolitics and Current Affairs
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The 4-hour Workweek
Timothy Ferriss
Yes!
Noah J. Goldstein, Steve J. Martin, Robert Cialdini
Benjamin Franklin
Walter Isaacson
Will
Will Smith
Amp It Up
Frank Slootman
Israel's Border Wars, 1949-1956
Benny Morris
The Quality of Mercy
William Shawcross
Leadership
Doris Kearns Goodwin
The Scout Mindset
Julia Galef
The Old Man and the Sea
Ernest Hemingway
This Is Your Brain on Music
Daniel J. Levitin
Bloodlands
Timothy Snyder
Maurice's Strategikon
Maurice (Emperor of the East)
Eisenhower in War and Peace
Jean Edward Smith
Lives of Girls and Women
Alice Munro
Great Expectations
Charles Dickens
Destined for War
Graham Allison
The Invitation
Oriah
Mawson's Will
Lennard Bickel
The Clash of the Cultures
John C. Bogle
Idea Makers
Stephen Wolfram
Kim Ji-Young, Born 1982
Cho Nam-Joo
Invisible Armies: An Epic History of Guerrilla Warfare from Ancient Times to the Present
Max Boot
Great Myths of the Brain
Christian Jarrett
The Fifth Risk
Michael Lewis
My Father's Daughter
Gwyneth Paltrow
History of Western Philosophy
Bertrand Russell
Necessary People
Anna Pitoniak
Clean and Lean for Life
James Duigan
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Alex Honnold's Book Recommendations
Alex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.
View Collection
Jon Stewart's Book Recommendations
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations
Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
David Deutsch's Book Recommendations
David Deutsch is a British physicist and philosopher, widely known for his contributions to quantum mechanics, particularly in the area of quantum computation. He is the author of The Fabric of Reality and The Beginning of Infinity, where he explores the nature of knowledge, progress, and the future of human civilization. Deutsch’s work in quantum computing laid the groundwork for the development of quantum algorithms, positioning him as a pioneer in this emerging field. He is a proponent of the multiverse theory and has offered profound insights into the nature of reality, science, and human potential. Deutsch’s philosophical work emphasizes the power of reason and creativity in solving problems and expanding human understanding. His ideas have had a significant impact on the fields of theoretical physics and epistemology, making him a leading thinker on the future of science and technology. He continues to inspire both scientists and lay readers with his optimistic vision of a world shaped by knowledge and innovation.
View Collection
Jesse Williams's Book Recommendations
Jesse Williams is a multifaceted talent best known for his work as an actor, director, and activist, but he has also made significant contributions to literature through his thought-provoking essays and social commentary. Williams has used his platform to address issues of race, identity, and social justice, often drawing from his own experiences to provide a powerful voice in contemporary discourse. His writing has appeared in various esteemed publications, capturing the complexities of modern society and advocating for systemic change. In addition to his literary efforts, Williams co-founded the production company farWord Inc., which aims to amplify underrepresented voices. His commitment to both the arts and activism continues to inspire a diverse audience, making him a prominent figure in multiple arenas of public life.
View Collection
Henry Rollins's Book Recommendations
Henry Rollins is an American musician, writer, actor, and spoken-word artist, best known as the frontman for the hardcore punk band Black Flag. Rollins’ music and performance style are characterized by intensity and aggression, often addressing themes of alienation, anger, and social injustice. After his music career, Rollins became known for his spoken-word performances and his work as a writer, where he explores personal and political issues with a sharp, critical voice. He is also an activist, supporting causes like LGBTQ+ rights and human rights. Rollins’ blend of music, performance, and activism has made him a countercultural icon.
View Collection
Peter Thiel's Book Recommendations
Peter Thiel is a renowned entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author best known for co-founding PayPal and Palantir Technologies. He played a pivotal role in the early growth of Facebook as its first outside investor. Thiel's literary contributions include his influential book "Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future," which offers insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of technology. A prominent figure in Silicon Valley, he has significantly impacted the tech industry's landscape through his investments and thought leadership. Thiel's work continues to inspire entrepreneurs and innovators around the world.
View Collection
Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations
Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an influential American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and social critic. He revolutionized the field of linguistics with his theory of generative grammar, particularly through his seminal work, "Syntactic Structures" (1957). Chomsky's contributions extend beyond linguistics to political activism, where he is known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and media, encapsulated in works like "Manufacturing Consent" (1988). As a professor emeritus at MIT, his interdisciplinary approach has significantly impacted cognitive science, philosophy of language, and political thought. Chomsky remains a prolific author and speaker, continuing to shape academic and public discourses.
View Collection
Larry Ellison's Book Recommendations
Larry Ellison is an American entrepreneur and co-founder of Oracle Corporation, a leading enterprise software company. Notably, Ellison's contributions to the technology industry have been profound, with Oracle's database software becoming a cornerstone for businesses worldwide. Although his primary fame stems from his business ventures, Ellison has also authored and co-authored works on technology and business strategy, sharing insights from his extensive career. His visionary leadership has not only revolutionized enterprise software but also inspired literature on innovation and corporate management. Ellison's achievements are a testament to the transformative power of technological advancement in modern business practices.
View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations
Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View Collection
Doris Kearns Goodwin's Book Recommendations
Doris Kearns Goodwin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American biographer and historian, best known for her in-depth explorations of U.S. presidents. Her notable works include Team of Rivals, which inspired the film Lincoln, and The Bully Pulpit. Goodwin’s expertise in American political history has made her a sought-after commentator on leadership and governance. She has won several prestigious awards for her work and continues to be an influential voice in historical scholarship. Goodwin is also a frequent guest on television news programs and documentaries.
View Collection
Jack Dorsey's Book Recommendations
Jack Dorsey is an influential American technology entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Twitter. While not primarily a literary figure, Dorsey's contributions to social media have revolutionized how information is disseminated and consumed globally. His work has indirectly influenced modern literature by providing a platform for writers, journalists, and thinkers to share ideas instantly. Additionally, Dorsey co-founded Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, which has impacted digital transactions worldwide. His innovative contributions have earned him recognition as a pivotal figure in the digital age.
View Collection
Nick Szabo's Book Recommendations
Nick Szabo is a computer scientist, cryptographer, and legal scholar, best known for his pioneering work on digital contracts and cryptocurrency. Szabo is credited with developing the concept of “smart contracts,” which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. His early work in digital currency, including his project Bit Gold, laid the groundwork for the development of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Szabo is a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency community and continues to advocate for the use of decentralized systems to enhance privacy, security, and trust online. His contributions to cryptography and digital currencies have made him a foundational figure in the world of blockchain.
View Collection“In the struggle for survival and dominance, power is not merely a resource, but a dynamic force reshaping the very fabric of society.”
Fighting Power
By Martin Van Creveld
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.