The Principle of Restricted Choice

"The Principle of Restricted Choices" is the second episode of the third season of the American anthology black comedy–crime drama television series Fargo. It is the 22nd overall episode of the series and was written by series creator Noah Hawley and directed by Michael Uppendahl. It originally aired on FX on April 26, 2017.

The season is set primarily in 2010, in three Minnesota towns: St. Cloud, Eden Valley, and Eden Prairie. It follows the lives of a couple, Ray Stussy and Nikki Swango, who, after unsuccessfully trying to rob Ray's wealthy older brother Emmit, become involved in a double murder case. One of the victims is an old man with a mysterious past whose stepdaughter, Gloria Burgle, is a policewoman. Meanwhile, Emmit tries to cut his ties with a shady organization he borrowed money from a year before, but the company, represented by V. M. Varga, has other plans. In the episode, Ray and Nikki work on their next move by attempting to retrieve the stamp, while Emmit and Sy try to find more about Varga. Meanwhile, Gloria finds more information on her stepfather while investigating Maurice's crimes.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 1.06 million household viewers and gained a 0.3 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received critical acclaim, with critics praising the writing, character development, humor, and performances (particularly Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Michael Stuhlbarg).