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In a classic study of co-operation based on computer simulation, The Evolution of Co-operation, Professor Robert Axelrod of the University of Michigan demonstrated that the most effective winning strategy for inducing co-operation is one that offers cooperation first and then sticks to tit-for-tat – or in other words, strict – reciprocity. By applying this strategy, players (or countries) that want to cement mutually co-operative relationships normally make a co-operative first move and then respond positively to acts of co-operation, and retaliate against cheating with cheating. More encouragingly, such a strategy can be applied to situations where both sides are apparently deadlocked in non-co-operative positions. Bilateral deadlocks can be broken if one side pushes the “reset” button and starts the game anew by offering concessions first.