STRATEGYDays to result

Solomon's Game

Truth Revelation

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Situations where truth revelation is crucial

Not ideal for

Situations where parties are not strategic

Overview

Why this framework exists

Solomon's Game is a framework for revealing the truth in a situation where two parties have conflicting claims. The game involves a series of moves, where each party has the opportunity to claim the disputed item or concede. The game is designed to incentivize the true owner to reveal themselves, while the false claimant is deterred from making a claim.

Core principles

3 total
  1. The game should be designed to incentivize the true owner to reveal themselves.
  2. The game should be designed to deter the false claimant from making a claim.
  3. The game should involve a series of moves, where each party has the opportunity to claim the disputed item or concede.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Determine the Disputed Item
    Determine the item or issue that is being disputed.
    Pro tipEnsure that the disputed item is clearly defined and understood by all parties.
    WarningAvoid using this framework for trivial or insignificant disputes.
  2. Design the Game
    Design a game that involves a series of moves, where each party has the opportunity to claim the disputed item or concede.
    Pro tipEnsure that the game is fair and unbiased.
    WarningAvoid using a game that is too complex or difficult to understand.
  3. Play the Game
    Play the game, allowing each party to make their moves and claim the disputed item or concede.
    Pro tipEnsure that all parties understand the rules and consequences of the game.
    WarningAvoid interrupting or influencing the game in any way.

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

1 cases
King Solomon's Dilemma

King Solomon used a similar game to determine the true mother of a disputed child.

OutcomeThe true mother was revealed and the child was returned to her.

Common mistakes

2 traps
Poor Game Design
A poorly designed game can lead to unfair or biased outcomes.
Lack of Understanding
A lack of understanding of the game or its rules can lead to confusion and poor decision-making.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The framework is based on the biblical story of King Solomon, who used a similar game to determine the true mother of a disputed child.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
The Art of Strategy: A Game Theorist's Guide to Success in Business and Life
Dixit, Avinash K. · 2008
Open source →

Related frameworks

Browse all Strategy →