The Psychological Effects of Hardships on Greed and Selfishness
Experiencing hardships can sometimes trigger greed and selfishness as a coping mechanism. This phenomenon is observed in individuals who, faced with scarcity and survival instincts, prioritize their own needs over others. Trauma or prolonged adversity can also lead to a defensive mindset, where the focus shifts to self-preservation. These psychological changes are often exacerbated by societal influences and a competitive environment, where individuals may perceive selfish behaviors as a means of gaining an advantage in difficult circumstances.
The Role of Fear and Survival Instincts
When faced with hardships, the fear of scarcity and the need for survival can drive individuals to prioritize their own needs. This is a natural response rooted in our evolutionary history, where prioritize survival was crucial for individual and group survival. For example, an individual in a famine may prioritize finding food for themselves before helping others, as they recognize the immediate danger they face.
Psychological Responses to Trauma and Adversity
Trauma or prolonged adversity can lead to a defensive mindset, making someone more focused on self-preservation. This psychological defense mechanism is a way for individuals to protect themselves from further harm. For instance, in a war zone or a severely economically distressed region, individuals may become more self-centered to ensure their own safety and wellbeing.
Societal Influences and Competitive Environments
Societal influences and competitive environments can also contribute to the development of selfish behaviors. In a competitive society, individuals may perceive selfishness as a necessary means to gain an advantage. This is supported by the "put a beggar on horseback and watch him ride" adage, which implies that in tough times, individuals may seek to elevate their position by any means necessary, even if it means prioritizing their own interests over others.
Examples and Case Studies
Several studies and real-life examples illustrate this phenomenon. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis, evidence showed an increase in selfish behaviors, with individuals being less likely to help others in need, even when it would have benefitted them long-term. Similarly, in areas affected by natural disasters, survival instincts often lead to prioritizing one's own and family's needs over communal aid efforts.
Another example is the psychological impact of prolonged warfare, where people often become more selfish and less trusting of others. This is well-documented in various post-war studies, showing a clear shift in social behavior towards a more selfish and often cynical mindset.
Psychological and Ethical Implications
While the transition from a fair and altruistic individual to a selfish one during hardships can be understandable from a psychological perspective, it raises ethical concerns. How do we preserve kindness and empathy during times of stress and adversity? Addressing these questions requires a multidisciplinary approach involving psychology, sociology, and ethics.
Conclusion
Experiencing hardships can indeed lead to a person becoming greedy and selfish, driven by a combination of survival instincts, trauma, societal influences, and competitive environments. However, recognizing and addressing these factors can help mitigate their negative impacts. By fostering a supportive environment that encourages empathy and cooperation, individuals can navigate through hardships with a more balanced and altruistic perspective.