[cturner]

I've seen people act like this, and kind of understand it, but it's a high investment for a very low payoff. It reminds me of people who fight for position by lane changing in cities with big commutes.

Or being determined to get off the plane a bit earlier of being aggressive at baggage collection. The petty gains don't begin to compensate for the energy loss, and the effect on your personality.

Over multiple rounds of play it's highly unstrategic. The only way to win is to identify losing games, and avoid playing them. I have built a habit where I always stand unless the carriage is practically empty, and then I never have to interact with the situation.

Generally English commuters are a respectful bunch: reserved, quiet, they let people off the train before trying to get on, there are still plenty of men (who want seats) who ignore it if ladies are standing. Celebrate it. It's nice not to live in Italy.