Why when we talk about must win situations, there is a stark divergence of thought (between those that are capable and those that aren't)?  

The competent strive for excellence and brilliant plays.  

The incompetent debase themselves in dishonor, game cheats and lies.

Imagine a football game where, instead of the star player rising to the occasion, answering the call and executing brilliant and magical plays, the player is committing fouls, abuses and game cheats to win at any cost.  

What is lost are those brilliant magical plays and excellence.

The same could be said for finding real solutions to problems in life.

So instead of having real solutions and sages that can win not only battles, but wars, 

your friend settles for liars, false grandiose idols, crimes against humanity abusers and fraudulent wins;

and he thinks that when you have garbage in, you'll have excellence out and truly be able to win in the long run?  

Or have salvation?