Trust Securing Through Historical Analogy

Based on Gan Mao's method before attacking Yi Yang.

Overview

Before undertaking a difficult task where others may undermine you, secure a formal pledge by illustrating how easily trust can be broken.

Steps

1. Identify the Risk

   • Recognize that long campaigns allow time for enemies to slander you
   • Identify who might speak against you (colleagues, rivals)

2. Select Appropriate Analogy

   • Choose a story about false accusations believed through repetition
   • Example: Zeng Shen's mother believed he killed someone after three people said so, despite his known virtue

3. Present Your Case

   • "My virtue is less than the historical figure"
   • "Your trust in me is less than a mother's trust"
   • "Those who will speak against me are more than three"

4. Secure Formal Commitment

   • Request a pledge or oath before proceeding