Does trust grow fragile when people are too rational or when they are not rational enough? Both thoughts are plausible. Which is right depends on how we define "reason." Martin Hollis' elegant and distinctive study argues for an interpretation of "reason" as putting the common good before one's own. This offers a universal reciprocity to people who then choose what reason shall mean for them.

1. The paradox of trust; 2. The perils of prudence; 3. The centipede's sting; 4. A remedy in the judgement and understanding? 5. Fairness and morality; 6. All in the game; 7. The bond of society; 8. Trust in the light of reason.