Understanding power relations

The book explores the universal mechanisms of power relations, showing that they govern animal behavior as well as human, political, and economic relations. From deer fights to Donald Trump, from games of seduction to the trade war between the United States and China, from job offers to the war in Ukraine, the book offers a stimulating, rigorous, and accessible reading to understand conflicts.

The author distinguishes three stages. Confrontation, where each side tries to convince the other that it will go further, even if it means bluffing. This is the principle of the chicken game, illustrated as much by territorial fights between animals as by Donald Trump's negotiating strategies.

Next comes domination, when one party imposes an unequal distribution of resources. This dynamic, known as the ultimatum model, sheds light on situations as diverse as insurance contracts, precarious working relationships, and asymmetrical alliances between states.

Finally, the author looks at reconciliation or escalation, two opposite outcomes of the same cycle. Excessive domination sooner or later leads to revolt, while a balance of dependencies can pacify a relationship, as in the case of the Treaty of Versailles and the Marshall Plan.

Accessible, topical, and engaging, this essay provides intellectual tools for challenging domination, devising effective protest actions, and healing conflictual relationships. The book includes graphs and diagrams to make it easier to read and understand the concepts presented. In addition, a number of “lessons in practical wisdom” boxes invite readers to draw lessons that can be applied in their professional or personal lives.

After studying economics and social sciences, Côme Frizé became a management consultant and essayist. He offers a unique perspective on power relations, drawing on work that is both demanding and entertaining.