Examples of Compromise Leading to Negative Results

October 8, 2009 7:25 AM

What are some examples of real life situations where compromising one's values, deeply held beliefs, established work process, etc., lead to negative results?

I'm looking for examples of compromise for selfish reasons, not examples of compromise where the situation called for it, but simply did not turn out well.

It's part of a presentation I'm doing, and little bit of humor would be a good thing, but not necessary. Any links to examples would be helpful.

Thanks!

posted by SpacemanStix to Society & Culture (10 answers total)

Not really real life, but the Abilene paradox comes to mind.
posted by MrMoonPie at 7:53 AM on October 8, 2009

Cheating on your spouse.
posted by Chocolate Pickle at 9:00 AM on October 8, 2009

Chamberlain at Munich?
posted by COBRA! at 9:09 AM on October 8, 2009

Some might say New Labour...
posted by mippy at 9:35 AM on October 8, 2009

Is the behavior of banks and financial institutions which caused the world financial crisis an example of what you are looking for?
posted by therubettes at 10:31 AM on October 8, 2009

The Ford pinto case?
posted by Thorzdad at 12:16 PM on October 8, 2009

Vichy France.
posted by Sticherbeast at 3:47 PM on October 8, 2009

well, having just seen the informant I would say that Mark Whitacre is a good candidate
posted by Think_Long at 6:22 PM on October 8, 2009

Response by poster: Thanks for the feedback everyone. Good thoughts.
posted by SpacemanStix at 10:19 AM on October 9, 2009

I know I don't like feeling compromised or bad about doing something that just doesn't set right with me. If I'm uncomfortable doing something, I don't do it. So the negative results are feeling horrible which is not a good feeling.
posted by VC Drake at 11:27 AM on October 9, 2009