At the moment I'm adhering to the boring agnostic (rationalistic?) view: both competition and cooperation, markets and organizations, have their roles to play in society.

I'm fine with his political claims, just wish his potential mood affiliation was clearly spelled out

Thanks for the additions, will note the original paper in future posts!

Although the original paper didn't mention this, I think your description makes sense! Indeed “the game must go on” even in case of stopping. One simpler idea of how to model the situation with moderator: there are just two players who have actions (1) adhere to (crypto) mediator's advice (2) deviate from advice.

Thanks for the insight about adding uncertainty to avoid ending with defection!