# 16. Rigging the obvious ## 16.5. Methodology/Refinements/Sub-species ### 16.5.3. Co-ordination problem In the third method, the so-called co-ordination problem technique, the manipulator relies on the fact, or originates the circumstances, wherein two or more victims see the alternative of working together to achieve a mutually profitable result as the obvious choice. The result must appear to reward them more than if they worked independently. A well-known analogy to this method is that of two parachutists. They have been dropped into unknown territory and are required to meet in order to escape together. However, they have made no previous arrangements about meeting at any predetermined location and are forced therefore to rely upon a map and knowledge of each other's behaviour. Whilst they have the same map, it is also slightly out of date and it doesn't show all the new features in the area. Each will assume that the other will go to the largest landmark in the region, a certain bridge marked on the map. Whatever they see that is not on their map, such as a large new church or another large bridge, they will not consider relevant. This is because it is not on their mutual map or part of the "obvious" course of action. The manipulator is the cartographer of this analogy. The victim's likely behaviour is obvious to the cartographer. This is a method of social manipulation where groups of victims can be obliged to take particular, mutually beneficial choices which are pre-defined by the manipulator. The manipulator is taking advantage of situations in which all parties can realise mutual gains, but only by making mutually consistent decisions.