Still works on the gullible (and always will). Once the trick is exposed, not too hard to tell it’s variants when they appear. Any pair of people attempting to dupe and manipulate someone using this bipolar technique often get the results they seek. The ‘mark’ is torn left from right with the psychological paradox being foisted upon them. Unless they’re wise to it, the ‘mark’ has little chance of doing well and more likely will cave one way or another. On the other hand, if they’re wise to it, they can take evasive measures to thwart an attack or threat.