Part 7/11:

In this competitive landscape, knowledge of how arbitrary circumstances can affect outcomes is vital. We often take our privileged circumstances for granted and fail to recognize how they shape our narratives of success. Those at the top of the social hierarchy are likely to assume their elevation is wholly due to their hard work, further obscuring the systemic advantages that facilitate such success.

Awareness and its Consequences

This distortion in perception leads to troubling societal consequences. Wealthy individuals, feeling justified in their success, may contribute less to societal welfare. A study highlighted how individuals who attributed their success solely to their qualities were less likely to donate to charity compared to those who acknowledged external factors.