"Tertius Gaudens" is a Latin phrase meaning "the third who rejoices." It refers to a situation where a third party benefits from a conflict or competition between two other parties. This concept is often discussed in economics, sociology, and conflict theory, highlighting how an outsider can gain advantages from the struggles of others. In literature and philosophy, "Tertius Gaudens" can illustrate themes of opportunism and unintended consequences. The term is sometimes associated with the works of Georg Simmel, a sociologist who explored social interactions and the dynamics of relationships, emphasizing how external parties can exploit rivalries for their own gain.