Overview
A method for persuading a superior to make painful decisions during a crisis by using historical analogies, emotional appeal, and consequence analysis.
Steps
- Express personal accountability: Begin by offering to accept punishment or death for the situation, demonstrating loyalty and seriousness
- Use historical analogies: Compare the current situation to historical precedents:
- Select cases involving similar relationships but severe consequences
- Show that even the closest family bonds did not prevent enforcement of law/protocol
- Invoke proverbs: Use well-known sayings that capture the danger of the situation
- Identify the core conflict: Explain the tension between personal affection and public duty
- Create urgency about the future: Point out what will happen if the current protector (the ultimate authority figure) is no longer present
- Offer a clear resolution: Specify exactly what action must be taken