Research has shown that humans are wired to respond to fairness and reciprocity. If the stranger perceives your offer as unfair, they may reject it, even if it means giving up a significant amount of money.
The most common response in experiments is option B) 50/50 ($50,000 each). People tend to prefer a fair split, even if it means giving up some money. However, if you're looking for a more "optimal" strategy, research suggests that offering around 20-30% ($20,000-$30,000) can maximize your payout while still being perceived as relatively fair.
How did your choice compare to the surprising truth?
So, what would you do? Choose your response:
Imagine you're presented with a life-changing offer: $100,000, but with a twist. You have to share it with someone you don't know. The catch? You get to decide how much of the money you share, and the other person can either accept or reject your offer.
Interestingly, studies have shown that when the proposer (you) offers a very low amount, the responder (stranger) is more likely to reject it, even if it means giving up a large sum of money. On the other hand, when the proposer offers a more generous amount, the responder is more likely to accept.
Do you:
A) Offer a small amount, say 10% ($10,000), and keep the majority for yourself? B) Offer a more generous amount, say 50% ($50,000), and risk being seen as fair but also giving up a significant portion? C) Offer an equal split, 50/50 ($50,000 each), and ensure a fair distribution?