The Crippling Curse of Comparison
I have recently been reading an extraordinary book by Jonah Berger entitled Contagious: Why Things Catch On. Throughout this thoroughly engaging read, Berger seeks to explain the qualities of ideas and behaviors that spread through cultures. He posits that "contagious content" possesses social currency, triggers, emotion, publicity, practical value, and stories.
In his book, he includes some fascinating research that highlights the prevalence and peril of social comparisons. Several years ago, researchers conducted a study at Harvard University. Students were asked to make a basic decision: Would they rather take a job that pays $50,000 a year (Option A) or one that pays $100,000 a year (Option B)? The catch was that those who would be paid $50,000 would receive twice as much as their counterparts, meaning that everyone else in the experiment would receive $25,000, while those who would be paid $100,000 would receive only half as much as their peers, meaning that everyone else in the experiment would receive $200,000.
Which option did the majority of the students choose? They selected Option A, preferring to do better relatively than doing the best absolutely. They desired to be the biggest fish in the pond, even if it meant doing worse financially. It's not that they worried about how well they were doing; it's that they worried how well they were doing in comparison to everyone else.
Unfortunately, this experiment is proven to be true every day, as Americans endeavor futilely to satisfy the insatiable hunger of doing better than everyone else. They buy the bigger house. They purchase the newest car. They acquire the most innovative piece of technology. However, this rat race results in frustration and a recognition that, as one man said, "The problem with the rat race is that in the end, you are still a rat." Ultimate satisfaction stems not from any earthly possession, but from a personal belief in and reception of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In his book, he includes some fascinating research that highlights the prevalence and peril of social comparisons. Several years ago, researchers conducted a study at Harvard University. Students were asked to make a basic decision: Would they rather take a job that pays $50,000 a year (Option A) or one that pays $100,000 a year (Option B)? The catch was that those who would be paid $50,000 would receive twice as much as their counterparts, meaning that everyone else in the experiment would receive $25,000, while those who would be paid $100,000 would receive only half as much as their peers, meaning that everyone else in the experiment would receive $200,000.
Which option did the majority of the students choose? They selected Option A, preferring to do better relatively than doing the best absolutely. They desired to be the biggest fish in the pond, even if it meant doing worse financially. It's not that they worried about how well they were doing; it's that they worried how well they were doing in comparison to everyone else.
Unfortunately, this experiment is proven to be true every day, as Americans endeavor futilely to satisfy the insatiable hunger of doing better than everyone else. They buy the bigger house. They purchase the newest car. They acquire the most innovative piece of technology. However, this rat race results in frustration and a recognition that, as one man said, "The problem with the rat race is that in the end, you are still a rat." Ultimate satisfaction stems not from any earthly possession, but from a personal belief in and reception of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The rules for playing online casino games.
ReplyDeleteHoliday Palace It is a website to participate in gaming, gambling, computer networking. Certified by Betfair throughout South East Asia as the best gambling site. The rules have been in place for more than 11 years until it is confirmed in accordance with the regulations of Cambodia.
We are fully committed to bringing you a new dimension of funding. You will never have touched anywhere before. We have a state-of-the-art technology system that provides live broadcasting via satellite from the ultimate gambling casino in Poipet. Go directly to your mobile phone or computer monitor. The gambler likes in our service regime is very high. The picture and the sound system is realistic about the rest. And we have a world class 400 games, more than 400 games.
For any player with a desire to open a new gaming experience, this bet is yours. We have well-trained, well-trained staff waiting to serve you 24 hours a day Gclub