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What is Tit For Tat?

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Tit for tat is a common strategy of diplomacy and business that responds to each attack from an opponent with a roughly equivalent counterattack.
The logic behind tit for tat is that it demonstrates a commitment to defend yourself. An important element of the strategy is preventing counterattacks from being viewed as an escalation. Otherwise, a downward spiral of escalation may break out.
An alternative to tit for tat, known as tit for two tats, responds with a counterattack for every second attack. This is used to clearly demonstrate that you're not interested in escalation but will defend yourself.
Communication is key to tit for tat as any conflict is best resolved with words.
Overview: Tit For Tat
Type
Diplomacy
Definition
Responding to an attack with an equivalent counterattack and making it clear that you're willing to end it there.
Example
A competitor aggressively recruits two members of your team, so you recruit a critical member of their team to send a message.
Risk
Tit for tat strategies may result in a costly escalation.
Related Concepts
Game Theory
Ethics
Diplomacy

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