• A list of principles does not reveal how individual principles interact nor the mechanism for doing so.

• Scientific laws and principles are the same for all countries and tend to change little over time. On the other hand, we note that the principles of war are different for different countries and change more dramatically over time. Furthermore, they do not make evident the importance of variety/rapidity/harmony/ initiative as basis to shape and adapt to circumstances—a necessary requirement for success in the uncertain and ever- changing environment of conflict or war.

• This would suggest that the principles are not principles. Instead, they seem to be some kind of a (shifting) static checklist or laundry list of what should be adhered to. JRB comment: USA, UK, and USSR principles also mix inputs (e.g., economy of forces/efforts) and outputs (surprise.)