Tactic Group: Authority

Explanation

Authority is the tactic of position or relevance. Authority can be the person using it, the person who does not have it, or information from an influential or respected source.

Analysis

Authority uses position, data or law to gain a tactical advantage. Generally, if follows the syllogism:

• Premise 1: My authority is valid;
• Premise 2: My position is based on this legitimate authority;
• Conclusion: Therefore, given of 1 and 2, accept my request

Solution

Attack premises by verification; new information, relevance and substance. For example, {attack by verification of the source} “I don’t think you are reading the case law property, that is not what the law says…”; or {attack authority by more information} “you may be the leader but you need information to make valid decisions, my information is valid so this is what your decision should be.” {Attack on Authority of Experience} Or “my lack of experience has nothing to do with this situation, this is logic and math…”