AIKIDO IN EVERYDAY LIFE by Terry Dobson and Victor Miller (1978, 2nd ed. 1993) attempted to create a model for behaviour based on Aikido principles as a guide. They called their system Attack-tics. Dobson had studied directly under the Founder and was eager share his inspiration and understanding.
“Attack-tics offers two things: a better way of viewing our daily struggles and a more effective way of handling them…Attack-tics is the result of a wedding of the martial arts and theater…in this case, one very special martial art, Aikido, and one little-known aspect of theater, the rehearsal and training process…The result…uses the physical throws and body movements of Aikido as metaphors for the way in which to handle all forms of social or psychological attack.” (p. xii-xiii)
The goal is to achieve a whole new outlook on conflict in inter-personal relationships, and a whole new outlook on life.
For some readers, one strength of the book is the series of diagrams that illustrate challenging situations and how to deal with them. Visual learners will appreciate how these drawings complement the text. As well as describing the principles and techniques of addressing conflict, the authors provide numerous examples that help allowing the reader to find cases that he or she can relate to.
The subtitle of the book, Giving in to Get Your Way, is, perhaps, somewhat misleading in that it seems to imply surrender. In fact, the authors contend that starting from confidence and strength is basic. But empathy is a key factor, along with realizing that most confrontations do not need to end with a winner and a loser.
I wish they could have added some basic Canadian courtesy to the mix. And while a little dated and naïve, the book remains a worthwhile read for those seeking an approach to applying Aikido outside of the dojo.
