Surrounded by Idiots shares a simple, revolutionary method of understanding the people around you that will change how you interact with everyone from your coworkers to your spouse. Author Thomas Erikson explains that there are four key behavior types that define how we interact with and perceive the people around us. Understanding someone's pattern of behavior is the key to successful communication. The so-called "idiots" in our lives are most often simply people who have a different behavior profile and style of communication. Erikson breaks down the four kinds of behavior types - Reds, who are dominant and commanding; Yellows, who are social and optimistic; Greens, who are laid-back and friendly; and Blues, who are analystical and precise - and explains how to identify and interact with each type of person. Instead of being bogged down with overly technical categorizations, the simple four-color system allows you to speedily identify a friend or coworker and adjust how you speak and share with them.