Seduction is Better than Coercion

To obtain power over others, seduction works better than coercion.


Image yourself as Chuko Liang, head strategist for the early Chinese state of Shu: War has just been declared on China by King Menghuo from the south and quitting him and saving the nation lies in your hands.


But before learning that which you must do, it’s critical to understand what not to do.


First of all, using force and coercive tactics is not wise, even when they’re the simplest alternative. In fact, if you do exercise your strength, you will be secretly resented by folks because force breeds opposition. Liang knew this and didn’t assault with force, even though he likely would have defeated the invading army.


However, if he had, Menghuo might have resented Liang and China and the state would need to always shield itself. This would have exhausted everyone bred and involved paranoia.


A much better strategy is seduction. People tend to be controlled by their emotions, and you are able to make them do what you desire – of their own free will, by playing on their feelings.


You are able to do it by then unexpectedly treating them kindly, and threatening your opponent so that pain is expected by them. As an example, when China was assaulted by Menghuo, Liang gained him and his whole army. Menghuo expected the worst and was distinguished from his soldiers, but to his great surprise he was offered delectable food and wine instead.


While Liang released his enemy’s soldiers, he'd simply let Menghuo go when the enemy king promised that if he was caught again, he'd bow to the Chinese king.


And while Liang got Menghuo several more times, he let him go. Then, on the seventh capture, Menghuo dropped to Liang’s feet, surrendering his kingdom and himself.


Though Liang could have killed Menghuo when he was captured by him, a fact that the enemy king was aware of, he treated him well each time and gave him loads of chances. Until he eventually surrendered of his own volition, as a result, Menghuo grew increasingly thankful and indebted to the Chinese king.