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3

Before proceeding to the definition of general terms, or
single words, there is one general idea concerning War upon which
I wish you to start with accurate conceptions. War is frequently
spoken of as a Science. The expression, closely considered and analyzed,
is incorrect; and, like most mistaken phrases, it has far-reaching
consequences, which may even result in a totally wrong and
fatal bias to a man's military character. The Conduct of War, properly
defined, is not a Science, but an Art. To us, who live in an age
which prides itself above all others upon being scientific; to us,
who, like all contemporaries, are inevitably and naturally affected
by the spirit of the age, which we inhale as imperceptibly as we do
the physical atmosphere surrounding us, it is important to keep this
distinction steadily in view, otherwise we may start with a misconception,
and, carrying it through our ^a course, ^{of investigation} may be disappointed and
injured by the failure to find, in our study, results of a kind which
we at no time had a right to expect.

This idea, being really fundamental, must receive sufficient
development to ensure its being firmly grasped. Let us consider
the distinction implied by the statement that the Conduct of
War is an Art, and not a Science-that the expression "Art of War" is
correct, while that of "Science of War" is incorrect-except when
applied to such almost mechanical proceedings as the regular siege
operations against a fortified place.

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