Compare And Contrast David And Goliath

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Why Davids Can Defeat Goliaths
Everyone loves the underdog because everyone can relate to them; they can succeed despite the uncontrollable disadvantageous circumstances. But why is it that underdogs can succeed? In Malcolm Gladwell’s David and Goliath, he proposes that it is because advantages are not always helpful, underdogs can actually possess desirable disadvantages, and the unconventional tactics and approaches they use are actually quite effective. Underdogs are able to succeed because of their disadvantaged background rather than in spite of them.
Underdogs are able to succeed because their opponent’s advantages are not always beneficial. Gladwell discusses how wealth, a traditional advantage, can actually cause parenting to be more …show more content…

In chapter four, David Boies, one of the most famous lawyers in the world, explains how his dyslexia allows him to flourish in his profession: “ But on the other hand, not being able to read a lot and learning by listening and asking questions means that I need to simplify issues to their basics. And that is very powerful, because in trial cases, judges and jurors — neither of them have the time or the ability to become an expert in the subject” (Gladwell 110). Boies is able to succeed as a lawyer because he develops a formidable memory and listening skills. In other words, his disadvantage is desirable because it allows him to develop other more effective skills. Furthermore, studies show that an underdog's early difficulties can often help them succeed later on in life. Historian Lucille Iremonger discovers that sixty-seven percent of the British prime ministers lost a parent before the age of sixteen. “Gifted children and child prodigies seem most likely to emerge in highly supportive family conditions. In contrast, geniuses have a perverse tendency of growing up in more adverse conditions” (Gladwell 142). This addresses the desirable disadvantage that growing up without a parent may result in more success. Children’s worst fears (the loss of a parent) are realized and when they discover that they are still standing — now have the courage, resiliency and self-confidence to achieve what others

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