Strategy reigns supreme. In "The Dark Forest," the second book of Liu Cixin's acclaimed "Remembrance of Earth's Past" trilogy, humanity must devise a response to an impending attack by a vastly superior alien civilization set to occur just over 400 years in the future. Despite Earth being monitored by a subatomic computer from the invading force, this device is unable to decipher human thoughts. Consequently, the United Nations appoints four individuals, known as Wallfacers, to devise plans to save Earth.
The four Wallfacers have devised varied strategies to defend against the extraterrestrial assault. The first, deemed insane, intends to build millions of hydrogen bombs to obliterate not just the enemy, but Earth as well. The second strategy involves developing superhuman intellects to accelerate scientific breakthroughs, while the third employs a kamikaze approach, using human-piloted hydrogen bombs to destroy the invaders.
The individual who has utilized the fewest resources has successfully prevented the impending doom of Earth's civilization. He views the universe as a dark forest where each predator is unaware of the others' locations. In such a forest, the safest strategy is to eliminate other predators upon discovery, as their intentions - hostile or friendly - remain unknown. The second principle states that more technologically advanced civilizations will eliminate less developed ones before they can become a threat by advancing scientifically, thus reinforcing the first principle. This Wallfacer warns the invaders that both civilizations will be destroyed if they do not agree to peace with Earth.
In the jungle of nations, we observe similar strategy in the trade war between China and the U.S.A., while the United Nations or the World Trade Organization is ineffective to deal with the superpowers.
In business, we often cannot eliminate competitors due to complex anti-competition laws in many developed economies. Sometimes, maintaining the status quo is desirable to ensure a fair share of profits until it is disrupted by innovative technology or a shift in consumer preferences.
Certainly, acquiring a competitor's business and enhancing it can be an effective strategy to eliminate competition, particularly if it aligns with your strategic goals. This approach of constructive destruction becomes even more pertinent during times of crisis, such as the current volatile situation.
It's crucial to escape the "Black Forest" if you find yourself ensnared. For those on the outside, consider allocating resources for innovation to stay competitive or even surpass your rivals.
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