5 ms·

There is something weird in our cognitive systems about envy. Wonder why nature "invented" it.

• r00fus 3y ago
  Quite simple if you think of Darwinian evolution - those who get more (and their offspring) outcompete you and your offspring for a limited resource so a resource struggle ensues.
  • sebastianconcpt 3y ago
    The dynamics of envy leads to individuals segregating, revolting, starving and dying. Is not for nothing that all religions have it as a sin. And I am looking at it with darwinian eyes.
    • esafak 3y ago
      It also makes you think twice before taking more than your fair share, which is the point.
      • sebastianconcpt 3y ago
        Unfairness deterrence. You really made me think there. Thanks for sharing that one. That idea would imply that homo sapiens (and perhaps other species) instinctually compute possible future dangers of making enemies out of what would be perceived as taking an unfair share. This can trigger a very rich discussion in so many directions. Thanks again for the insight.
        • esafak 3y ago
          Here's some food for thought: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_cake-cutting https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_cake-cutting I was introduced to this subject through this concise book: https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/evolution-of-the-social-contract/3565986C7EC209D2E0E477DB9B07D50D https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/evolution-of-the-social...
• lmm 3y ago
  It's a simple precommitment that avoids huge classes of ways to exploit you. Probably similar to instinctively refusing to pay blackmail even when it's notionally in your interest.
• Obscurity4340 3y ago
  A lot of it probably has to do with competition with siblings too. I know personally that was always a thing with us. We aggressively monitored each others' getting of stuff. I still laugh about it sometimes. So silly but I'm glad people learn this way while the stakes are lower