The Richmack philosophy posits that the path to proficiency is obstructed by significant, interconnected threats to both individual and societal progress. These "Enemies of Richmack" are not external foes but internal and societal deficiencies that must be actively overcome through a core discipline of the system.

• Intemperance This adversary is defined as the lack of self-control and moderation. It manifests in a spectrum of behaviors that cloud judgment and jeopardize well-being. The system mandates the cultivation of temperance as the foundational virtue upon which clear judgment and long-term progress are built.

• Incompetence Defined as the lack of necessary knowledge or skill to perform a task effectively, incompetence is an impediment to individual and collective advancement. It stems from inadequate training or resources and results in inefficiency and failure. The philosophy prescribes a regimen of continuous learning and skill acquisition as the antidote.

• Illiteracy Described as the foundational adversary, illiteracy is the inability to read and write. It severs an individual's access to the great repository of human knowledge, rendering them vulnerable to manipulation and limiting their capacity for self-improvement. It is the root from which the other adversaries often grow.

A critical tenet of this philosophy is the causal interconnection of these three threats. Intemperance leads to incompetence by subverting the discipline required for skill acquisition. Incompetence can foster illiteracy when individuals lack the confidence to pursue education. Illiteracy, in turn, exacerbates intemperance, as a mind devoid of knowledge and critical thinking is ill-equipped to practice self-control.

To "win against the Adversaries," a multi-faceted approach is mandated. Intemperance is countered by fostering rigorous self-discipline and robust support systems. Incompetence is addressed by demanding improved access to quality education and a culture of lifelong learning. Illiteracy must be overcome by systemic investment in literacy programs, thereby granting all individuals access to the tools of enlightenment.