Progress inequality and social tensions

 

In our ever-changing society, progress is a central motivator. Individuals strive for personal growth, professional development, and the achievement of goals. However, when one person makes rapid progress while others around him or her do not, there is progress inequality. This phenomenon can cause tensions in social relationships, mainly due to the human tendency to social comparison. In this article, I explore the dynamics of progress inequality, the role of Leon Festinger's social comparison theory, and possible ways to minimize its negative consequences.

Social comparison theory and self-esteem

Leon Festinger introduced the social comparison theory in 1954 , which states that people evaluate themselves by comparing themselves to others. This comparison serves two purposes: self-evaluation, obtaining an accurate picture of oneself, and self-enhancement, maintaining or improving a positive self-image.

The self-enhancement motive is particularly powerful, influencing not only how we compare ourselves to others, but also who we compare ourselves to. We can use downward comparisons to feel better about ourselves, or upward comparisons to inspire us to improve.

Progressive inequality and social tensions

When an individual makes exceptional progress, this can create a gap with his or her social environment. This disparity can lead to feelings of jealousy, insecurity and threat in others. According to social comparison theory, people can use different strategies to protect their self-esteem when confronted with the success of others.

• They may try to outdo each other, which can lead to healthy competition but also to unfair practices and unnecessary tension.
• They may belittle the achievements of others by downplaying successes to make themselves feel better.
• Or they may avoid contact to avoid confrontation with their own sense of inadequacy.

These reactions can strain relationships and create an environment where individual progress is viewed negatively.

The role of the vanguard and rearguard

Progress inequality is a two-sided problem:

• The vanguard, those making progress, may unconsciously put up barriers or act superior, which creates resistance.
• The rearguard, those who remain behind, may form opposition to the vanguard instead of being inspired.

Both groups contribute to widening the gap, which has negative effects on social cohesion and cooperation.

Why stopping the pursuit of progress isn't the solution

How can we deal with the disadvantages of progress inequality? Stopping the pursuit of progress is not a solution. It is unthinkable that we as humans abandon our pursuit of progress in the first place, because it is inherent to human nature.

But moreover, letting go of our progression orientation would not be a good solution. If we did not make progress, we might be able to avoid the disadvantages mentioned, but we would also miss out on the advantages of progression. And these advantages, certainly initially, are often greater than the disadvantages.

That said, it is important to find solutions to the problems that progress inequality can bring. If we don't, these problems can damage relationships and demotivate us.

Strategies to minimize negative consequences

To reduce the gap between the vanguard and the rearguard and minimize the negative consequences of progression inequality, several strategies can be considered:

• Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing: Mentoring can be effective, with individuals who are making progress guiding and supporting others in their development. Team-oriented working, with a focus on collective goals rather than individual achievements, contributes to a harmonious environment.
• Cultivating a growth mindset: Through education and training, people can be encouraged to view progress as a shared journey rather than a competition. Positive social comparison, where one draws inspiration from the successes of others without envy, helps to reduce negative feelings.
• Implementing equal opportunities policies and rules: Equal access to resources, such as education and training, ensures that everyone has the chance to grow. Transparent criteria for promotion and reward prevent favoritism and promote fairness.
• Cultivating wise communication: Wise communication involves perspectivism, which considers diverse perspectives, and dialectical and reflective thinking, which integrates contradictions. With epistemic humility, we acknowledge our own limitations and pursue truth, which contributes to understanding and the reduction of social tensions.
  

Self-defense at the forefront

In addition to the above points, here are some strategies to consider if you are on the front lines and are faced with jealousy and/or opposition.

1. Reflect on your own attitude and communication

• Show humility and acknowledge that your own progress has been made possible by others or circumstances. This can reduce jealousy.
• Avoid signals of superiority, even unintentional, and be empathetic toward others.

2. Set boundaries where necessary

• Be assertive in indicating boundaries when criticism or opposition becomes unjust. For example, by stating what you will and will not accept.
• Avoid confrontation where possible, and be willing to engage in constructive conversations when necessary.

3. Support and inspire

• Make your progress a shared benefit by involving and supporting others. Through mentoring and knowledge sharing, your progress is seen as less of a threat.
• Inspire others with your approach and show them how they can benefit from your experiences.

4. Seek support from like-minded people

• Surround yourself with people who value and understand your progress, such as mentors, coaches, or peers who have had similar experiences.
• Look for networks or communities where progress is celebrated and shared rather than criticized.

5. Develop emotional resilience

• Build self-compassion and resilience to deal with negative reactions such as jealousy. By shifting your focus to your own goals and values, you reduce the emotional impact of opposition.
• Learn to interpret negative feelings in others not as personal attacks, but as an expression of their own insecurities.

Conclusion

Progress inequality is a complex phenomenon that arises from natural human tendencies toward social comparison and self-aggrandizement. Although it cannot be completely prevented, we can reduce its negative effects through conscious efforts. Through cooperation, a culture of shared growth, and the promotion of equal opportunities, we can work toward a society in which individual progress does not lead to social tensions but rather contributes to collective development.