That is the very question Status Anxiety by Alain de Botton aims to answer. The following are the topics that it explores.
Democracy and Meritocracy
Isn’t it such a delight to think that we live in a democracy and everyone has access to the same fundamental rights and opportunities, meaning that you can essentially start at rock bottom and still make it to the top.
It makes our society one which is a meritocracy where those of merit get what they deserve but this poses a significant question, are those who struggle who struggle with poverty also deserving of it ?
Meritocracy makes your successes more exhilarating and your failures that much more crushing so, essentially we take both successes and failures deeply personally even when we sometimes don’t have any role to play in them.
Since the sting of failure is that much more personal now , it has led to higher rates of suicide because people supposedly feel more like a loser.
In ancient times, those who struggled with poverty were called unfortunates, literally translating to not being blessed by the goddess of fortune.
This made bearing the yoke of poverty easier because you knew the world was conspiring against you and you knew that the caste system was rigged , but now you have no one but yourself to blame.
Envy And Equality
In a society striving for equality but still plagued by significant disparities, it becomes challenging to avoid feeling envious of others' accomplishments.
The successes of those around us can serve as a subtle reminder of our own shortcomings and unmet aspirations, fueling a sense of envy as we measure ourselves against our perceived peers.
Let’s say person A and person B are schoolmates with the same talents and intelligence and they meet at their high school reunion 10 years later. Person A works at a reputed multinational company while person B is struggling to make ends meet. It is hard not to think where person B went wrong.
You wouldn't be jealous of the Queen of England because you don’t perceive her as an equal but you would be jealous of if your peer scored more than you in a test , your friend got married but you are still single or if your colleague gets a raise.
Sense Of Validation
Alain de Botton explains that a significant number of things that we do on a daily basis is because of the validation we seek from others.
To hear someone say she is so smart or he is self-made is the extrinsic motivation of your actions.
Sense Of Validation
Alain de Botton explains that a significant number of things that we do on a daily basis is because of the validation we seek from others.
To hear someone say she is so smart or he is self-made is the extrinsic motivation of your actions.
He continues, the next time you see a rich guy racing his luxury car down the street, replace contempt with a sense of pity and recognise that he is a vulnerable individual in desperate need for love.
Art and Philosophy Change Perception
Art and philosophy defy conventional ideas about the hierarchy of importance and achievement, advocating for self-trust and finding value in everyday occurrences rather than seeking validation from others.
This perspective offers a rejuvenating solution to societal pressures and anxieties.
Depictions of failure in art and literature provide insight into coping with setbacks, shedding light on society's harsh criticism and the function of art in understanding and reinterpreting failure.
Art disrupts conventional hierarchies by illustrating the worth and dignity found in ordinary lives, promoting appreciation for everyday occurrences and the unique significance of each individual.
Contemplate Death
Considering the inevitability of death can lead to a reevaluation of what truly matters, shifting focus towards personal relationships and core values.
The narrative examines how facing mortality can diminish the significance placed on societal status and external validation, emphasizing the importance of intimate experiences and connections.
Art and Philosophy Change Perception
Art and philosophy defy conventional ideas about the hierarchy of importance and achievement, advocating for self-trust and finding value in everyday occurrences rather than seeking validation from others.
This perspective offers a rejuvenating solution to societal pressures and anxieties.
Depictions of failure in art and literature provide insight into coping with setbacks, shedding light on society's harsh criticism and the function of art in understanding and reinterpreting failure.
Art disrupts conventional hierarchies by illustrating the worth and dignity found in ordinary lives, promoting appreciation for everyday occurrences and the unique significance of each individual.
Contemplate Death
Considering the inevitability of death can lead to a reevaluation of what truly matters, shifting focus towards personal relationships and core values.
The narrative examines how facing mortality can diminish the significance placed on societal status and external validation, emphasizing the importance of intimate experiences and connections.
The documentary explores the idea that contemplating death serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences over societal expectations and achievements.
After all, we are dust and we shall return to dust.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, the document addresses the idea of status anxiety in today's society. Despite notable advancements in wealth and economic prospects, there hasn't been a corresponding increase in happiness.
The emphasis on equality and the pressure to achieve have contributed to heightened concerns about one's standing and accomplishments.
Moreover, changes in religious beliefs from traditional Christianity to secularism have influenced how success and failure are perceived.
Ultimately, the document suggests that prioritizing meaningful connections and self-reflection can help ease worries about status and self-esteem.
Written by Niamat Kaur Gill
This article has been authored exclusively by the writer and is being presented on Eat My News, which serves as a platform for the community to voice their perspectives. As an entity, Eat My News cannot be held liable for the content or its accuracy. The views expressed in this article solely pertain to the author or writer. For further queries about the article or its content you can contact on this email address - niamatkgwork@gmail.com
After all, we are dust and we shall return to dust.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, the document addresses the idea of status anxiety in today's society. Despite notable advancements in wealth and economic prospects, there hasn't been a corresponding increase in happiness.
The emphasis on equality and the pressure to achieve have contributed to heightened concerns about one's standing and accomplishments.
Moreover, changes in religious beliefs from traditional Christianity to secularism have influenced how success and failure are perceived.
Ultimately, the document suggests that prioritizing meaningful connections and self-reflection can help ease worries about status and self-esteem.
Written by Niamat Kaur Gill
This article has been authored exclusively by the writer and is being presented on Eat My News, which serves as a platform for the community to voice their perspectives. As an entity, Eat My News cannot be held liable for the content or its accuracy. The views expressed in this article solely pertain to the author or writer. For further queries about the article or its content you can contact on this email address - niamatkgwork@gmail.com
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