Often over the coming years, the exact opposite of compromise, difference-splitting and cosy half-measures will be needed to deal with a debt crisis big enough to make even the drama of the past week look like a frivolous sideshow.

ECONOMIST: The new coalition government

Negotiating a deal by splitting the difference in bargaining positions is tempting but unprincipled.

FORBES: Good Negotiators Don't Split Babies

Splitting the difference also gives far too much power to your negotiation partner.

FORBES: Good Negotiators Don't Split Babies