0+0=0
-1+1=0
there are two types of zero-sum games: attrition and winner-takes-all. they are not the same. (thread)
-1+1=0
there are two types of zero-sum games: attrition and winner-takes-all. they are not the same. (thread)
winner-takes-all (-1+1=0) → mma match, soccer game, other dick-measuring contests
attrition (0+0=0) → politics, popularity contests, call-out culture
attrition (0+0=0) → politics, popularity contests, call-out culture
winner-takes-all games = stepping into a ring, mutually agreed-upon rules; you leave soon after with hands in victory or head hanging in defeat
attrition games = deathmatch in a locked room, winner still locked up, surrounded by dead bodies
attrition games = deathmatch in a locked room, winner still locked up, surrounded by dead bodies
attrition games, on a long enough timeframe, have no winners. winner-take-all games are quick bouts where the winner is objectively determined.
you can win an election, but you can’t win a career as a politician. you can embarrass your rival, but you can’t win housewives of wherever.
winner-takes-all zero-sum games push you to be better. attrition zero-sum games destroy your soul.
winner-takes-all games are risky, and therefore can’t be faked (for long). all measures of masculinity are winner-takes-all: i could kill you, i make more money than you, my woman is more desirable than yours. ironically, it’s the attrition games that are truly toxic.
the lessons: don’t lock yourself in a room with the strugglers. play your own game, improve yourself, take risks on your skills often, and that’s it. that’s your best shot.
good luck.
good luck.
