Interesting post, @jwolf. In behavioral economics, there is a subjective cost to giving something up now for more of it in the future. If the amount I can expect in the future increases my overall satisfaction (utility in economist-speak), it is rational to choose the second option of waiting for the higher amount. If not, then it is still rational to choose the first option even if I am getting less overall. It is well known that psychopathy is linked to an above-average desire for immediate gratification. So I agree with your conclusion.