Is this a case of irrationality giving the protesters an advantage, or are there private gains for the protesters?
I think it's mostly the former ("fuck it" is an awesome superpower), but some protesters probably have gains in terms of status and reputation. Plus the leaders might be making a bet that if mainland China decides to throw some carrots at them, they'll be in a good position to grab them.
"fuck it" is an awesome superpower
Not if it causes you to drive while drunk, texting, and not wearing a seat-belt. Then it's a cognitive disability.
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