MENTAL MODEL · M1566

Point at the Mulberry while Cursing the Locust

BusinessHigh supportManagement

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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Nominally criticizing the mulberry tree, but actually cursing the locust tree. By warning or punishing the weak or a third party, one indirectly deters or pressures the strong or those who are difficult to confront directly.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Indirect pressure. As a manager, some core members cannot be directly criticized (for fear they might leave); instead, one can sternly criticize their subordinates or handle similar typical cases (pointing at the mulberry) to send a signal to them, prompting self-correction.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Point at the mulberry while cursing the locust refers to ostensibly scolding A but actually scolding B, using insinuation to express dissatisfaction or exert pressure. It is a strategy of indirect expression, often used to avoid direct confrontation.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

Recognize whether the other party is using a pretext to make a point, and if necessary, bring the implicit target into the open for direct confrontation. When using it yourself, be mindful of boundaries to avoid misunderstandings and resentment.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

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zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%8C%87%E6%A1%91%E7%BD%B5%E6%A7%90ZH · Explicit
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