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About this quote

What does it mean?
Kindness combined with the threat of violence is more effective than kindness alone.
In plain terms
Being nice helps, but having force behind you helps more.
What can you take from it?
Combining charm with a threat is a powerful tactic.

Where it applies

  • negotiation
  • leadership
  • conflict

Putting it to work

  • negotiating deals
  • managing relationships

Questions to consider

  • What tools do you have to enforce your words?

Another view

It normalizes the use of violence to settle disputes.

More from Al Capone

  1. When I sell liquor, it's called bootlegging. When my patrons serve it on silver trays on Lake Shore Drive, it's called hospitality.

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  2. Public service is my motto.

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  3. Vote early and vote often.

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