[A well-known concept in Indian tradition is the set of four methods used in dealing with situations of potential or actual conflict: sama, dana, bheda and danda (i.e. adopting a conciliatory attitude, placating with rewards and gifts, sowing dissension among enemies and using force). These are referred to in many different places in the text. A detailed consideration of the use of the appropriate method is found mainly in Book 9 which deals with the planning and preparation needed before undertaking a military campaign.
