Duplicity, deception, and dirty tactics

I've read Sun Tzu, the 48 Laws of Power, and The Prince.

All of these books have one thing in common and that is the idea that victory is of paramount importance.

But victory, when achieved through duplicity, deception, and dirty tactics is not the sort of victory I would expect to bring me pride, honor, or respect -- especially in the eyes of my child, for whom I think the world turns.

Even the most noble ideals with the most noble intent becomes repulsive when pursued by foul means.