The narrative centers on the absurd pursuit of social dominance through the calculated application of 'Lifemanship' and 'One-upmanship' techniques.

Stephen Potter presents a satirical guide through the fictional Lifemanship Correspondence College, where the protagonist—or rather, the reader—is instructed in the art of gaining an advantage over others in everyday social interactions. The text operates as a mock-academic manual, detailing various ploys, gambits, and psychological maneuvers designed to keep the practitioner in a position of superiority. The world is defined by the rigid, polite, and often stifling conventions of mid-century British society, which serve as the perfect backdrop for these petty, tactical power struggles. The narrative framework is presented as a formal instructional text, complete with illustrative examples and case studies that highlight the absurdity of human competitiveness.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the book's enduring relevance as a sharp, witty critique of human vanity and social posturing. Discussion often centers on the author's ability to codify the subtle, often unconscious ways individuals attempt to assert dominance in conversation. Many appreciate the dry, understated humor that permeates the instructional prose, making the absurdity of the 'Lifemanship' system feel grounded in recognizable reality. The work is often cited as a classic of British satire, praised for its clever observation of the social dynamics that govern polite society. Readers frequently note that while the specific references may feel dated, the underlying psychological insights remain as pertinent today as when the book was first published.