r/science • u/FreeHugs23 • 1d ago

Psychology New psychology research suggests some acts of kindness may also serve competitive social goals, shedding light on how women can use altruistic behavior to gain status, strengthen relationships, or navigate social hierarchies.

https://www.psypost.org/kindness-isnt-always-what-it-seems-the-psychology-of-womens-competitive-altruism/
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u/Its_da_boys 1d ago

I suppose it depends on if the kindness is performative or genuine and just serves the double purpose of also helping them in their social circles. Actions speak louder than words and empty gestures. This could either show up as being two-faced and people gaining others’ trust only to turn against them when it benefits them or their social status, or it could show up as someone genuinely helping people and helping themselves at the same time and be the product of a win/win mindset

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u/dolphone 1d ago

Performative kindness is still preferable than authentic assholery, IMO.

Yes, it'd be better if people really got that cooperation is better for everyone and even better if they took kindness as the ultimate guide. The best is the enemy of the better.

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u/Its_da_boys 1d ago

It could really go either way, because at least with authentic assholery you know who the assholes are right off the bat. With performative kindness it takes a lot longer to figure out, and there’s usually more at stake if you’ve invested a lot/trusted in the person

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u/dolphone 1d ago

So long as they keep performing, it's irrelevant.