In today’s diverse world, it’s inevitable that groups holding different perspectives and values will interact and their interests may sometimes conflict. All too often, the default approach sees to be confrontation – either aggressively pushing one’s own views, or sticking strictly to “minding our own business” without engagement. However, there is a better way, informed by game theory: cooperative compromise and reciprocal altruism. Rather than initially taking rigid stances or retaliating against those we disagree with, this approach seeks mutual understanding and win-win solutions through respectful discussion. When issues arise affecting multiple groups, cooperative compromise means starting from a place of making concessions where possible, to build trust and goodwill. It means responding to uncivil or rights-restricting actions in a measured manner designed to resume cooperation rather than escalate conflict. Most importantly, cooperative compromise looks for opportunities where all sides feel heard and have their basic interests respected. Through give-and-take, it aims to find balanced solutions that benefit everyone in both the short and long-term. Game theory shows that over time, this cooperative approach leads to more stable, productive relationships between interdependent parties than aggression or isolation. While upfront cooperation may carry short-term costs, groups recognize mutual self-interest in reciprocating to maintain benefits in the future. In an increasingly interconnected world, choosing cooperative compromise over confrontation provides the best path towards maintaining an open, pluralistic and just society for all. It ensures the conversation stays focused on jointly solving problems instead of bitterly arguing ideological differences. Let this be our guiding philosophy as we engage with others who see the world through different lenses.