Month: March 2025

Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a blog series that delves deeply into the intricate art of strategy within various interactions, focusing not only on effective communication and conflict resolution but also on the essential skill of building meaningful connections. This series aims to illuminate the multifaceted nature of human interactions by covering an array of topics, including but not limited to, negotiation techniques that help you secure advantageous outcomes, manipulation tactics that can be ethically understood, and leadership skills that empower you to inspire and mobilize others. Furthermore, we explore the significance of personal branding and online reputation management, providing you with critical tools to navigate the often-complex power dynamics inherent in both social and professional settings. By engaging with this content, you will be equipped with the insights and strategies necessary to achieve success, foster lasting relationships, and assert your influence in any environment, thereby enhancing your overall effectiveness in various aspects of life.

In this installment, we will explore the 21stlaw of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can but a copy by clicking HERE.

LAW 21 SEEM DUMBER THAN YOUR MARK

Play a sucker to catch a sucker, a clever strategy that emphasizes the art of deception and manipulation within social interactions. It suggests that one must sometimes adopt a less knowledgeable or naïve persona to lure in individuals who might otherwise be wary, effectively drawing them into one’s game.

By appearing vulnerable or unsuspecting, the true motives can remain hidden, allowing the cunning individual to gain the upper hand. This tactic involves careful observation of human behavior, exploiting the weaknesses and overconfidence of others, ultimately turning the tables in one’s favor and showcasing the complex dynamics of trust and betrayal that often govern our relationships.

In a world where deception can weave intricate webs, the skillful strategist learns to navigate these interpersonal landscapes with finesse. They recognize that even the most seemingly innocuous actions can carry significant weight, as nuances in body language and vocal tone often reveal hidden intentions. By playing the role of the passive participant, they elicit a false sense of security in their targets, thereby facilitating deeper connections that serve as a foundation for their ulterior motives.

This art of manipulation further sheds light on the delicate balance of power in human interactions, demonstrating how easily perceptions can shift and how fragile alliances may truly be when challenged by the ambition of those skilled in the game of human psychology. These dynamics compel us to remain vigilant, for trust, once broken, leaves lasting scars that can alter the trajectories of relationships indefinitely, transforming allies into adversaries in an instant.

The 21st Law of Power Through the Eyes of an Angoleiro

The ancient wisdom captured within The 48 Laws of Power offers a compelling, often ruthless, blueprint for gaining and maintaining influence. Law 21, “Play a Sucker to Catch a Sucker—Seem Dumber Than Your Mark,” is particularly fascinating when viewed through the lens of Capoeira Angola, the traditional, foundational style of the Afro-Brazilian art form. An angoleiro—a practitioner of Capoeira Angola—lives a philosophy deeply rooted in cunning, deception, and the strategic underestimation of the self, mirroring the essence of this law.The Angoleiro’s Strategic Deception (A Malícia as Intellect)

In the roda (the circle where capoeira is played), the angoleiro often adopts an apparent posture of vulnerability or sluggishness. The movements are low, slow, and seemingly effortless, a stark contrast to the high-flying acrobatics of the more modern Capoeira Regional. This deliberate, understated approach is not a sign of weakness, but a manifestation of malícia—a sophisticated blend of street smarts, cunning, and calculated deception.

The Angoleiro as the “Sucker”: The angoleiro plays the sucker by presenting an inviting, almost docile target. The slow tempo and seemingly relaxed guard encourage the opponent, or the “mark,” to rush in, overcommit, and reveal their own strategy and ego. The apparent lack of urgency makes the opponent believe they have the intellectual and physical advantage, lulling them into a false sense of security. The angoleiro may stumble, pause for too long, or even smile a little too innocently, all calculated moves to bait the trap.

The Opponent as the “Sucker”: The opponent, blinded by their own eagerness to dominate or execute a complex maneuver, becomes the true sucker. They are so focused on what they believe the angoleiro can’t do—move fast, strike hard, defend effectively—that they fail to notice the critical details: the subtle shift in weight, the positioning of the hands, or the angle of the head, which are all preparatory for the counter-attack. The angoleiro’s feigned simplicity makes the opponent overlook the complexity of the ancient, powerful movements hidden within the slow flow.The Art of Underestimation and Hidden Arsenal

The core of Law 21 is allowing the opponent’s pride to be their downfall. In Capoeira Angola, this is a masterclass in controlled understatement.

1. Concealing the Technique: The angoleiro rarely displays their most lethal or powerful moves immediately. Instead, they probe with simple, low-impact movements like the rasteira (low sweep) or a simple cabeçada (headbutt), making the opponent believe the art is fundamentally basic. The true, devastating sweeps, take-downs, and powerful chutes (kicks) are reserved and hidden, only to be executed once the opponent has committed to a predictable pattern.
2. Gathering Intelligence: The slower, seemingly dumber pace serves as a perfect intelligence-gathering operation. By appearing less threatening, the angoleiro forces the opponent to play their A-game prematurely. Every move the opponent makes—their favored side, their reaction time, their level of stamina, their commitment to the ground—is recorded and analyzed. The angoleiro wins the intellectual game before the physical climax.
3. The Explosive Counter: The entire game culminates in the moment the “mark” overextends. When the opponent commits to a forceful, complex attack, the angoleiro explodes from the “sucker” posture with terrifying precision. The sudden transition from slow, low movements to an inescapable, explosive sweep or a powerful, unexpected takedown shatters the opponent’s perception. They realize, too late, that they were not playing a fool, but a master craftsman of deception.

Conclusion: Wisdom in Humility

The angoleiro, embodying Law 21, understands that true power often lies not in overt display, but in controlled concealment. The apparent humility and simplicity of the Angolan style are the ultimate weapons. By allowing others to underestimate them, they gain the critical advantage of surprise and the intellectual high ground. The lesson is universal: appearing dumber than your mark strips them of their vigilance and fuels their arrogance, making them an easy target for the inevitable, well-timed stroke of cunning. It is a profound lesson that the most effective trap is the one that is voluntarily walked into.

Good morning.

The majority of police officers are committed to protecting their communities and fostering trust through outreach programs. However, some abuse their power, damaging the reputation of their colleagues and eroding public trust in law enforcement. This highlights the need for ongoing training and stricter oversight to maintain accountability while ensuring the dedication of the many is recognized.

These are their stories.

In today’s installment, Demetra Kaye reports on a troubling incident involving Anti-Black attitudes among some Latino and Asian officers, who were caught discussing violent tactics, specifically, the act of punching Black suspects in the liver.

This occurrence raises serious concerns regarding the internal culture within law enforcement agencies, highlighting a systemic issue of racial biases. The conversations, which were not only shocking but also indicative of deep-seated prejudices, demonstrate the urgent need for comprehensive training and policy reform to address discrimination and ensure accountability.

The implications of such attitudes can severely undermine community trust and safety, further complicating already strained relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. This erosion of trust can lead to a vicious cycle, where communities become increasingly reluctant to cooperate with law enforcement efforts, fearing discrimination or bias in response to their concerns. As a result, crime rates may rise due to diminished reporting of incidents, which can foster an environment where criminal activities flourish unchecked. Furthermore, the lack of mutual respect and understanding between law enforcement and community members creates barriers to open dialogue, making it even more challenging to address root causes of tension and conflict. Without a concerted effort to bridge these gaps through community engagement and transparency, the situation could deteriorate further, exacerbating feelings of alienation and resentment.

Welcome to the Survivor Series, where we explore Urban and Wilderness Survival, focusing on essential skills, practical tips, and strategies to prepare for unexpected challenges in both cities and nature, covering shelter-building, food sourcing, self-defense, and mental resilience.

Today, We are gonna talk (Or more accurately, YOU’RE gonna read what I TYPE), about URBAN SURVIVAL.

So, what is Urban Survival?

Urban survival involves the skills and knowledge required to thrive in a city, especially during emergencies, emphasizing situational awareness, resourcefulness, and self-reliance.

In urban environments, individuals must learn to navigate not only the physical landscape but also the social dynamics that can change in times of crisis. This includes understanding how to identify safe zones, locate essential resources like food and water, and maintain personal safety. Additionally, urban survival skills encompass the ability to forge connections with others, build community networks, and share vital information, which can be crucial during chaotic situations.

Moreover, cultivating a network of allies can significantly enhance one’s chances of survival, as sharing knowledge and resources in a community creates a robust support system that can prove invaluable during challenging times. In times of crisis, having trusted individuals who can offer diverse skills and perspectives makes all the difference, as it fosters an environment of cooperation and trust. This network can facilitate the exchange of critical information regarding safety practices, resource availability, and emergency response strategies.

Last but not least, continuous learning and consistent practice of survival skills, such as first aid, self-defense, and effective communication, enhance individual preparedness and confidence. Engaging in workshops, training sessions, and community drills can empower individuals to respond effectively to unexpected situations. By doing so, they ensure they remain resilient and adaptable, ready to tackle not just personal challenges but also to assist others in their community, reinforcing a collective strength that is essential in overcoming adversity.

I would like you to watch the video below.

From the video description:

“Based on Matt Ruff’s novel, this series follows Korean war vet Atticus Freeman, his friend Letitia and his Uncle George on a journey across 1950s Jim Crow America. What follows is a struggle to survive against the terrors of white America and the terrifying monsters ripped from an H.P. Lovecraft paperback.”

• Part 1: the above video
• Part 2: https://youtu.be/4zs1P73JxwI
• Part 3: https://youtu.be/vKPvm31IJYo
• Part 4: https://youtu.be/i4tAAUiDnmE
• Part 5: https://youtu.be/MJEfAw1VrhA
• Part 6: https://youtu.be/uYy2Yr0sCZ4
• Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYq_t_YVjSOGwZZQjaysXbOvtMPXY2A2Q

This website is not large enough for me to describe all the acts of racism that the main actors are going through in this series, but I do want to focus on one particularly significant topic that is discussed in the 1st video. This topic is “Sundown Towns,” which holds a dark place in the history of racial segregation in the United States.

So, what is a “Sundown town?”

A “sundown town” refers to a municipality or neighborhood that historically practiced racial exclusion by systematically denying non-whites the right to reside or even be present after dark.

These practices were often enforced through discriminatory laws, social intimidation, or outright violence, leading to a climate of fear for marginalized communities. In many areas, those who dared to challenge the status quo faced dire consequences, including economic repercussions and threats to their safety. The term itself originates from ominous signs that would inform “colored people” that they needed to leave by sunset, a clear manifestation of institutional racism, reinforcing the idea that their presence was unwelcome and dangerous. This not only served to exclude them from public spaces but also instilled a deep-rooted sense of inferiority and exclusion within these communities.

Now if you noticed, above I asked “What is a Sundown town”, and not “What was a Sundown Town”. Well, the reason is simple. Despite the progression that we as a nation has had since the 1960’s, the fact is that Sundown towns still exist out there, often hidden in plain sight, perpetuating a legacy of racial discrimination and exclusion. These towns, which were once openly hostile to people of color after dark, have now adopted more subtle forms of racism, maintaining an atmosphere that discourages diversity and fosters segregation. The video below shows some examples, illustrating not only the physical boundaries of these communities but also the enduring mindset that fuels their existence, inviting viewers to reflect on the underlying issues that continue to plague our society.

Understanding the implications of such towns is crucial, as it reveals a persistent legacy of racism that continues to impact our society today, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and systemic inequality that are still felt in various forms, from social injustices to limited access to essential resources. This legacy is woven into the fabric of our communities, influencing not only economic opportunities but also educational access and healthcare outcomes.

By examining these historical contexts and their enduring effects, we can gain a deeper insight into the complexities of racial dynamics in contemporary society. Furthermore, it is imperative that we engage in open discussions about these issues to foster awareness and drive meaningful change. So, I’ll be posting more about this subject, as I believe it is vital to continue this conversation and explore potential solutions to these ingrained problems.

Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a blog series that delves deeply into the intricate art of strategy within various interactions, focusing not only on effective communication and conflict resolution but also on the essential skill of building meaningful connections. This series aims to illuminate the multifaceted nature of human interactions by covering an array of topics, including but not limited to, negotiation techniques that help you secure advantageous outcomes, manipulation tactics that can be ethically understood, and leadership skills that empower you to inspire and mobilize others. Furthermore, we explore the significance of personal branding and online reputation management, providing you with critical tools to navigate the often-complex power dynamics inherent in both social and professional settings. By engaging with this content, you will be equipped with the insights and strategies necessary to achieve success, foster lasting relationships, and assert your influence in any environment, thereby enhancing your overall effectiveness in various aspects of life.

In this installment, we will again explore the 20th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can but a copy by clicking HERE.

LAW 20 PART 2 DO NOT COMMIT TO ANYONE

The freedom to explore different relationships and experiences is invaluable. It is essential to maintain a sense of independence in order to grow personally and understand what you truly desire in life. Engaging with various people allows you to learn from diverse perspectives and cultivate a richer understanding of yourself and what you value.

Remember, building connections is important, but not at the expense of your own personal growth and autonomy. It is essential to prioritize your own needs and aspirations while engaging with others. So take your time, enjoy the journey, and keep your options open as you navigate through the complexities of relationships, ensuring that each connection enhances your life rather than detracts from your sense of self. Embrace the opportunities for learning and self-discovery that come with each interaction, allowing yourself the freedom to explore what truly resonates with you while balancing the expectations and dynamics of those around you.

The 20th Law of Power: Do Not Commit to Anyone, as viewed through the lens of an angoleiro (a practitioner of Capoeira Angola).

In the world of Capoeira Angola, the 20th Law—”Do Not Commit to Anyone”—takes on a unique and deeply practical significance. An angoleiro is constantly navigating a complex social and physical landscape within the roda (the circle where capoeira is played) and the wider community. Commitment, in this context, is not merely about emotional attachment but about strategic alignment, energy expenditure, and the preservation of one’s own freedom and equilibrium.

Strategic Neutrality in the Roda

The roda is a microcosm of life—a space of both cooperation and subtle conflict. If an angoleiro commits too heavily to one partner’s style, rhythm, or strategy, they become predictable and susceptible to attack. The law advises maintaining a calculated distance and a neutral stance.

• Avoid Becoming an Aliado (Ally) or a Target: By aligning too strongly with a particular mestre (master), a specific group, or a political faction within the capoeira world, one risks inheriting their rivalries, limitations, and enemies. The angoleiro must be a free agent, able to play with everyone and learn from all styles without being shackled to one ideology. This allows the player to move fluidly, both physically in the game and socially in the hierarchy.
• The Economy of Movement (Ginga): The ginga, the foundational sway of Capoeira Angola, embodies this law. It is perpetual non-commitment—a constant state of being neither here nor there, neither attacking nor fully defending. It is an active neutrality that keeps the opponent guessing and conserves energy for the decisive moment. Committing to a static position or a predictable pattern is a sign of weakness, inviting a take-down.
• The Power of the Observer: By not committing to a particular style of game, the angoleiro can stand back and observe the entire roda—the energy, the weaknesses of others, the rhythm of the instruments. This detachment allows for the accumulation of intelligence, enabling the player to enter the game at the perfect moment with the appropriate counter-strategy.

The Master of the Pivot

The ultimate application of this law in Capoeira Angola is the ability to pivot—to change allegiance, rhythm, or strategy instantly. The angoleiro maintains their leverage by making themselves desirable to all and dependent on none.

• Lending, Not Giving, Your Weight: In a physical sense, the best players learn to ‘lend’ their weight and intention, never fully committing their center of gravity until the last possible second. This keeps them agile and able to retract or shift focus instantly.
• Maintaining Independence from Patrons: In the traditional context, a mestre might have patrons or sponsors. The angoleiro must accept support, but ensure they do not become a mere puppet for that patron’s agenda. Their loyalty is to the art itself and their own development, not to any single source of funding or influence.

The angoleiro‘s path is one of calculated self-reliance. By refusing to commit fully, they remain fluid, adaptable, and ultimately, free—the true goal of Capoeira Angola. Their power lies in their independence, their ability to be an ally to all and a servant to none.