Cockfighting Game × Liu Bang's Power Strategy

1. Core Model: What is the Cockfighting Game?

Essence: Both sides deter each other in conflict, competing to be bolder, but mutual destruction is the worst outcome.
Classic Scenario: Drivers meeting on a narrow road, whoever turns first "loses face"; if neither turns, they crash (double loss).
Optimal Solution: Occasionally be tough, mostly make concessions, and use "uncertainty" to prevent the other side from daring to be aggressive, avoiding mutual destruction.

2. Liu Bang's Practical Operations

1. Create a Game: Proactively Raise the Issue
Liu Bang proposed "abolishing the crown prince," dragging Empress Lü, officials, and Lady Qi into conflict, taking control of the narrative.
Work/Life Application: When facing a deadlock, proactively propose a "risky but negotiable" plan to force the other side to respond.

2. Test the Bottom Line: Allow the Other Side to Be Tough
Officials like Zhou Chang opposed fiercely. Liu Bang did not suppress them directly but "was amused and temporarily conceded," which clarified opposition strength while leaving room for future moves.
Work/Life Application: Don’t try to suppress immediately; let the other side fully express their tough stance so you can judge their true bottom line.

3. Leave Room for Safety: Insure the Weaker Side
Liu Bang appointed Zhou Chang to assist Liu Ruyi, which both appeased Lady Qi’s faction and increased the cost for Empress Lü to "purge," avoiding extreme conflicts later.
Work/Life Application: When making concessions, add a "firewall" to your interests to prevent the other side from taking an inch and demanding a mile.

4. Final Concession: Avoid Double Losses
Liu Bang ultimately abandoned the idea of abolishing the crown prince, preventing a palace coup, maintaining stability, and achieving a "dignified ending."
Work/Life Application: When you realize the other side’s bottom line is unbreakable, cut losses in time, using small concessions to achieve a bigger strategic goal.