You might want to read up a little on Game Theory. It is an interesting way to look at compromise. Of course it is not foolproof, and the more variables and players, the more possible outcome situations. This is a tool used in diplomacy to estimate risks and establish positions for negotiation, which is part of the reason why Iraq and North Korea are being treated so differently.
I would be interested to see an example of common ground for its own sake. I can't think of any instance where an individual or our legislators have compromised a winning position and given something away when they didn't have to. In my mind, holding an intractable goal is not bad (eg; Middle East Peace, balancing your personal budget), but inflexibility in achieving that goal is unproductive.
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The difference between theory and reality is that in theory there is no difference.
"God made man, but he used the monkey to do it." DEVO
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