In Michael Crichton's book "Congo," the main character's management philosophy comes from experiences that taught him valuable lessons about leadership. He believes in assigning projects to individuals who have the strongest incentive to succeed, whether that is due to the potential benefits they stand to gain or the significant risks they face if they fail. This approach encourages accountability and personal investment in outcomes.

The philosophy suggests that effective management involves understanding the motivations of team members. By leveraging their stakes in the project, a leader can foster a sense of responsibility and drive, ultimately leading to better project results. This perspective, shaped by tough lessons learned in his earlier career, highlights the importance of aligning personal goals with organizational objectives.