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It most likely is referring to the interaction between groups in a business setting such as management and unions. A "ritual" between these two groups would include wage bargaining. There are certain unwritten rules about how this type of bargaining takes place. For example, it is common for the union to ask for more than they know they will get, just as it is expected for management to offer less than they are ultimately willing to pay.
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Sarah, EssayForum.com
Sarah, EssayForum.com