Stratagem 07 of 36

Creating Something Out of Nothing

无中生有

Stratagems of Defending · 敌战计

Core Definition

核心释义

Use bluff and deception to create the illusion of strength. Make the enemy believe you have resources or capabilities you do not.

诳也,非诳也,实其所诳也。少阴、太阴、太阳。

Historical Origin

历史典故

The Classic Story

Zhang Shougui of the Tang Dynasty used empty fortresses and fake campfires to make invading Khitan forces believe a massive army was encamped, causing them to retreat without a fight.

唐代张守圭使用空城和虚假篝火,使入侵的契丹军队误以为有大军驻扎,不战而退。

Modern Applications

现代应用
  • Projecting confidence in business negotiations to secure better terms
  • Creating perception of market momentum through strategic announcements
  • Building brand authority through content before having the full infrastructure
  • Using vaporware announcements to test market interest and deter competitors

Supplementary Case Studies

补充案例分析

Theranos Deception

Elizabeth Holmes created the illusion of revolutionary blood-testing technology that didn't actually work. By projecting confidence and securing prestigious partnerships, she created the appearance of a functioning product from nothing — until reality caught up.

Elizabeth Holmes制造了革命性血液检测技术的假象,而该技术实际上并不奏效。通过展现自信和获得知名合作伙伴,她从无到有地营造了产品运作的表象——直到真相大白。

Blitzkrieg Psychological Warfare

Germany exaggerated the size and capability of its forces during early WWII campaigns. Radio broadcasts described vast armored divisions, when in reality many units were understrength. The psychological effect amplified real military power.

德国在二战早期战役中夸大了军队规模和实力。广播描述了庞大的装甲师,实际上许多部队兵力不足。心理效果放大了真实的军事力量。