O dilema do prisioneiro

Q & A

What is the Prisoner's Dilemma mentioned in the script?

The Prisoner's Dilemma is a strategic situation where two individuals must decide whether to cooperate or betray each other. The outcome depends on the choices they make, and while mutual cooperation leads to a relatively mild punishment, betrayal can lead to better outcomes for the betrayer at the expense of the other.

How does game theory relate to the decision-making process in the script?

Game theory is used to understand strategic situations where individuals or players make decisions to maximize their own outcomes. In the script, game theory helps Cebolão navigate the dilemma presented by the prosecutor, illustrating how decisions made by him and his partner, Pimentinha, affect their fates.

What are the possible outcomes if both Cebolão and Pimentinha confess?

If both Cebolão and Pimentinha confess, they will each be sentenced to 5 years in jail.

What happens if Cebolão confesses but Pimentinha stays quiet?

If Cebolão confesses and Pimentinha stays quiet, Cebolão goes free while Pimentinha serves 10 years in jail.

What are the consequences if both Cebolão and Pimentinha stay quiet?

If both Cebolão and Pimentinha stay quiet, they each serve 2 years in jail.

Why is it important for Cebolão to consider his partner Pimentinha's choices in the decision-making process?

It's important because the outcome of Cebolão's decision is deeply intertwined with Pimentinha's choices. If both act in their self-interest (by confessing), they will both face a harsh penalty. However, if they cooperate by staying quiet, they can minimize their punishment.

What is the core dilemma Cebolão faces regarding his relationship with Pimentinha?

Cebolão faces a dilemma between pragmatism (choosing the action that benefits him most, even if it harms Pimentinha) and fidelity (trusting Pimentinha to make a cooperative decision for both to reduce their sentence).

How does the concept of a 'zero-sum game' differ from the Prisoner's Dilemma?

In a zero-sum game, one player's gain is always the other's loss. The Prisoner's Dilemma, however, is not zero-sum, meaning both players can benefit or suffer based on their decisions, even though betrayal is often seen as the optimal choice.

What lesson does the narrator try to convey about the Prisoner's Dilemma in the context of the story?

The narrator emphasizes that the Prisoner's Dilemma teaches the importance of trust and strategic decision-making, highlighting how cooperation can often lead to better outcomes for all players involved.

Why does the narrator suggest that Cebolão needs to 'think strategically'?

The narrator suggests this because, by using game theory, Cebolão can maximize his chances of getting out of jail by carefully analyzing the possible outcomes based on the decisions made by both him and his partner.