Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M3184

Tit for Tat

Tit for Tat
BehaviorHigh supportEvolutionary Psychology
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-31

CORE DEFINITION

In the iterated prisoner's dilemma, the most effective strategy is often the simplest: cooperate on the first move; thereafter, imitate the opponent's previous move (cooperate if they cooperated, defect if they defected). It has four characteristics: being nice (not defecting first), being retaliatory (punishing defection), being forgiving (willing to restore cooperation), and being simple (easy for the opponent to recognize).

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

A survival algorithm for long-term relationships. It proves that 'good guys' can survive in a cruel world, provided they have 'thorns'. In the workplace or business cooperation, do not be a pushover without limits (you will be devoured), nor be a pure villain (you will be isolated). Be someone who is easy to get along with but has a temper.

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Anchor fast decisions

In repeated games, cooperate on the first move, then imitate the opponent's previous move, combining the four traits of niceness, retaliation, forgiveness, and simplicity; it is an evolutionarily stable strategy that promotes cooperation.

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Source support: Explicit

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    zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%A5%E7%89%99%E9%82%84%E7%89%99ZH · Explicit
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