Overview

A method for persuading a superior to make painful decisions during a crisis by using historical analogies, emotional appeal, and consequence analysis.

Steps

1. Express personal accountability: Begin by offering to accept punishment or death for the situation, demonstrating loyalty and seriousness
2. 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
3. Invoke proverbs: Use well-known sayings that capture the danger of the situation
4. Identify the core conflict: Explain the tension between personal affection and public duty
5. Create urgency about the future: Point out what will happen if the current protector (the ultimate authority figure) is no longer present
6. Offer a clear resolution: Specify exactly what action must be taken

Key Principles

• "主辱臣死" (When the lord is humiliated, the minister should die) - accept responsibility first
• "治天下终不以私乱公" (Governing the world never allows private matters to disorder public ones)
• Use the superior's fear of future isolation as motivation

Expected Outcomes

• The superior recognizes the necessity of action
• Difficult decisions are made with emotional support
• The advisor's standing increases due to demonstrated loyalty and wisdom

Verification

• Confirm historical analogies selected are directly parallel to the current crisis situation
• Validate that the proposed resolution is specific and actionable, not merely abstract counsel
• Check that the superior has acknowledged the urgency and committed to a concrete course of action