This analogy nails the problem. The theory is predicated on askers being OK with a "no" and will move on. This doesn't hold up for me. I don't think you can

This analogy nails the problem. The theory is predicated on askers being OK with a "no" and will move on. This doesn't hold up for me. I don't think you can refuse advances, a request from your boss to cancel your dinner to finish a presentation, etc. without repercussions.