A closer look
That complimentary piece of generic peppermint is actually a weaponized psychological trigger designed to hack your wallet. The norm of reciprocity dictates that when someone gives us a gift, our societal programming forces an overwhelming urge to return the favor. By handing you a two-cent candy, the server subconsciously binds you to a deep social contract that you instantly buy your way out of by adding five dollars to the tip.






