Journal of Southwest Petroleum University(Social Sciences Edition) ›› 2025, Vol. 27 ›› Issue (5): 12-20.

• COMMEMORATE THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VICTORY OF THE CHINESE PEOPLE'S WAR OF RESISTANCE AGAINST JAPANESE AGGRESSION AND THE WORLD ANTI-FASCIST WAR • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The Philosophical Implications and Methodological Orientation of Mao Zedong's On Protracted War

FENG Bing1, CHAO Daifa1,2   

  1. 1. College of Marxism, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan, 610065, China;
    2. College of Marxism, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou Gansu, 730030, China
  • Published:2025-10-24

Abstract: On Protracted War, authored by Mao Zedong, stands as a significant theoretical achievement in the sinicization of Marxism and exemplifies the unity of military theory and dialectical logic. The work is imbued with rich Marxist philosophical thought. In this seminal text, Mao conducts a comprehensive and objective analysis of the comparative strengths of China and Japan using the two fundamental viewpoints and three basic laws of materialist dialectics. He profoundly reveals the internal laws governing the War of Resistance, drawing upon the historical experiences of China's revolutionary wars, offers a scientific explanation of the overall trajectory and prospects of the War of Resistance. The work serves as a successful paradigm of philosophical reflection, macro-level analysis, and scientific forecasting regarding warfare. It sets a model example for the creative application of holistic thinking, process thinking, value-oriented thinking, dialectical thinking, and subject-oriented thinking in the study and conduct of war. The philosophical implications and methodological orientation in On Protracted War offer critical insights for the present times: in advancing the great cause of building a great country and achieving national rejuvenation through Chinese-style modernization, we must skillfully apply subject-oriented thinking, carry forward the spirit of historical initiative while respecting objective laws; we must adopt dialectical thinking, proceed from concrete realities, and firmly grasp the overarching trends of development; and we must uphold the mass line, place trust in the people, rely on the people, and continuously consolidate the tremendous strength of the masses.

Key words: On Protracted War, the War of Resistance, sinicization of Marxism, Mao Zedong

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