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Old June 16th, 2011 #8
Alex Linder
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Join Date: Nov 2003
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Steve B View Post
Reminds me of a book I read as a yoot, How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie. The basic premise of the book was to show that it is possible to change other peoples behavior by changing ones reaction to them. Supposedly you do this by being a good listener, making them feel important and encouraging people to talk about themselves and their interests. Then you appeal to "nobler motives" by making them feel happy about doing what you suggest. Clinton was a master at it. Personally I viewed these techniques as nothing more than kissing ass on stupid people whose thoughts and opinions meant nothing to me. Guess I'd make a crappy politician.
Carnegie's way is to essentially make yourself into a mirror. Don't issue any opinions or show any character, just grin and reflect whatever the other guy is putting out, and he'll think you're a swell fellow. It does work, but I believe the price is higher than Carnegie lets on.