The classic game theory example of the prisoner's dilemma works well enough as an example. We've been through thousands upon thousands of iterations of the same game, and every time, both prisoners expect the other to betray them, because that is how it always happens.

The first to choose cooperation instead of betrayal will be destroyed, unless they make the leap together.

Asking someone to make the leap on the first iteration is a tough sell. Asking them to make it on the millionth, when generation after generation preceding chose betrayal, is nearly impossible.