The document discusses how assholes can negatively impact projects and communities. It defines an asshole as someone who leaves others feeling oppressed, humiliated or belittled after an interaction. Having assholes around can reduce effort, commitment and performance from others on a project. It also decreases innovation, cooperation and the ability to attract new talent. The document suggests ways to prevent assholes through providing clear expectations, maintaining high standards, and being quantitative in evaluations. Dealing with assholes is ultimately not worth the costs and problems they cause.