Article review on envy up, scorn down: how comparison divides us by susan t. fiske

I would like to agree with most of the findings and opinions expressed by the writer of this invaluable article. Since we are in a competitively diverse society, it is inevitable that we have to embrace comparison as one of our traits. However, in doing this, we should be in a position of to understand its two fold consequences (Adamic, L., 2007).

Similarly, I also accept the fact that it is good because it can help people to improve their performance. As she argues, it does this through motivating individuals and eventually boosting their self esteem. Actually, a motivated fellow will be contented with their status hence concentrating in their duties as they aspire to measure their success with others. I think this is true particularly given that it provokes a healthy competition.

However, I also agree with the argument that comparison, if not well used, can cause division amongst the people. Hence, this may explain the reason for persistent existence of social segregation in many regions like the United States of America (USA). That is why this country has the wealthy, poor, natives, ageing, young and the immigrant groups each enjoying different status from the other.

Moreover, it may cause more havoc in case it instigates people to be envious and scornful. In case this happens, an individual may experience a stressful and depressing life (Adamic, L., 2007). As the writer explains, envy is worse than scorn because an envious person will not demonstrate any positive reaction towards his fellow or wish them well in whatever they do. Instead of being benign, they will be so malicious to the extent that they wish for the down fall of those competing against them.

On the other hand, it is true that a scornful person will always feel insecure and unhappy about others. However, unlike an envious fellow, they furthest they can go are to show disapproval and contempt against the existence and attempts by their opponents to develop. In the long run, they end up being inferior.

Even if power corrupts, people should not be envious with those in higher status than them. Otherwise, they should try to learn more about the tricks they adopted in order to help them in improving their status. We should be cautious enough to patiently study, analyze and understand the intensions and the ability of people to influence our lives in whatever way.

In addition, I would like to agree with this writer for suggesting that the only surest way to mitigate envy and scorn is through empathy and recognition. Those perceived to be in the low social status should not be openly condemned and disregarded. Instead, they should be associated wit high status. For instance, as the author suggests, the immigrant communities should be linked to successful and industrious cliques believed to be enjoying prestige. Truly, this make them are proud and contented as they strive to cope up with the realities of life.

On the other hand, I would like to disagree with this author for suggesting that power deactivates people’s mental capability. The notion that powerful people must show disapproval to their subordinates does not hold water. Many people, especially those in elective positions must observe the principles of office ethics and understand that they are subject to their electorates (Adamic, L., 2007).

On the same note, the poor people should not be compelled to their status because it is not God given. They don not deserve it nor are there due to their incompetence. They are not naturally lazy and so can liberate themselves if not discriminated upon, but given an equal opportunity to compete with others.

Works cited

Adamic, L. (2007) Dynamite: The story of class violence in America, Revised Edition. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.