[zem]

given that there are a lot of scams that start by giving the mark something in order to create a sense of obligation, it's not an unreasonable response

[Doxin]

The trick to those is to take the thing and then not feel obligated to do anything whatsoever.

[Majestic121]

That's good in theory, but in practice the con men will ask for what they gave back and might get violent if you refuse.

I'd give up on ten dollars if it means not having to fight/argue this way on the street.

[Doxin]

oh obviously don't get into a fight, but I see no problem in being annoying to con men if you can do so safely. It's not like you're gonna get decked straight away if you refuse to give it back. As always use your own judgement.

[falsedan]

Some people have the human social impulse wired too strongly to do that.

[brady747]

Agreed. I don't believe you are implying this, but neither Saul nor I intend to state their reactions are unreasonable. Merely to indicate how divergent reactions can be in different populations and how this can be utilized.