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About this quote

What does it mean?
Defeating a powerful foe requires understanding their heart, which only comes from loving them.
In plain terms
To beat a strong enemy, you must love and understand them.
What can you take from it?
Love can be a strategic tool for insight.

Where it applies

  • military planning
  • conflict negotiation

Putting it to work

  • study opponent motives
  • build rapport

Questions to consider

  • Is love necessary for true understanding?
  • Can you love an enemy without compromising your goals?

Another view

Love may cloud judgment rather than clarify.

More from Orson Scott Card

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