Adversaries Quote by John Lanchester
““He had a simple maxim for all competitive or adversarial situations: work out what the other party least wants you to do, and then do it. Relieving your feelings was fun, but the best course of action was to make things as difficult as possible for the person trying to make things difficult for you.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The New World, John Lanchester, 2018
In conflicts, identify what the opponent hopes to avoid and then do it, making their task harder.
In simple terms: Do what the opponent fears.
Key Takeaway
Turn opponents’ expectations against them.
Themes
strategy
psychology
conflict resolution
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
strategic
psychological
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- legal disputes
- competitive sports
- political campaigns
Key Concepts
Game theory
anticipatory tactics
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical limits exist for this tactic?
- How might this approach affect long‑term relationships?
A Different Perspective
Risk of escalating hostility and unintended consequences.
