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MENTAL MODEL · M3382

Bai Lan / Let it Rot

Bai Lan / Let it Rot
DecideHigh supportGame Theory
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-31

CORE DEFINITION

Originated from the NBA. When the situation is hopeless (certain defeat), deliberately giving up resistance and allowing the situation to deteriorate, in order to minimize energy consumption or force a system reset.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

A strategy of giving up when things are beyond saving. In a game, if you are at an absolute disadvantage and effort is futile, going all out is a waste of resources. "Bai Lan" is a passive stop-loss, even a last resort to protest against the system (nonviolent non-cooperation).

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

In a situation where defeat is certain and effort is futile, continued investment is a black hole of sunk costs. "Bai Lan" is proactive stop-loss: giving up resistance to minimize energy consumption, and using the manifestation of "system failure" to force a reset or protest (nonviolent non-cooperation). It is a strategic choice under disadvantage.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tang_pingZH · Explicit
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