Knowledge is Power

This quote is usually attributed to Sir Francis Bacon (in latin: Scientia potentia est)

Thomas Hobbes also wrote (translated from latin): "The sciences, are small power; because not eminent; and therefore, not acknowledged in any man; nor are at all, but in a few, and in them, but of a few things. For science is of that nature, as none can understand it to be, but such as in a good measure have attained it"

I like the quotes. But that's not the point of this.



My point is but another example (of endless examples) as to why I like knowing things.

Specifically things in advance (without the other party knowing).

If you can learn a number of things about a person, prior to meeting a person, especially things that might be considered of a private or personal in nature, you have gained an upper hand like no other. You can not only direct the flow of conversation, potentially avoiding and honing in on specific topics, but you can compare what you know of the person, to what the person presents themselves as.

Its fascinating and almost thrilling to be involved in (when you are in the know) a conversation that you completely control. When you understand so much more than just the words the person is speaking.

Its magical.

People might think that the way to get information is by simply checking one's fail-book. This is not the case. You will not learn anything about the person from their fail-book that you wouldn't find out in the first 5 minutes of talking to them.

No. You need to glean information from other sources. I'll leave those sources up to you, but it is worth the reward.

When you hold all the cards and your opponent (your friend can be your opponent as well) thinks you only know what you've been shown. A new dimension appears and their souls can be laid bare.

Good times.