being a pessimist is different. the adherents to "game theory" use proven manipulation techniques because they work.
it is not as simplistic as insulting a woman and then she loves you. there is a push, and a pull. break down the old, build up the new. fresh meat for the army gets broken down, then built up as a solider. players put down a girl, then build up a woman.
eg.
negative statement: "wow, the colours of those shoes, and that dress are terrible"
not directly insulting, but definitely creating self doubt in the woman's mind.
positive statement: "but you make them go together wonderfully"
reinforcing positive feelings, thus creating the connection with the complimenter.
i think its funny when girls say, 'that wouldn't work on me', because those are the ones who typically are currently falling for it, or have in the past.
s e x