Final answer:
Non-cooperation between prisoners is often considered the best independent action in the prisoner's dilemma.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of prisoner behavior, non-cooperation between prisoners is often considered the best independent action rather than the best joint action. The prisoner's dilemma is a scenario in game theory where two individuals have the choice to cooperate or defect.
If both prisoners cooperate, they both receive a lesser sentence. However, if one cooperates and the other defects, the defector may receive a lesser or no sentence while the cooperator receives a harsher sentence. Therefore, in this situation, each individual may choose to act in their self-interest by defecting, which can be the best independent action.