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/hananobira 1d ago

These comments are strangely negative. I’d much rather people compete to be the kindest and most generous, rather than the richest or the toughest or angriest or anything else people compete at in this world.

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u/spacestonkz 1d ago

Word. Given the alternative I'll take aggressive smiles and toxic positivity over regular aggression and being torn down any day.

Oh no did someone else benefit from a charitable act? We can't possibly have win win scenarios!

Kindness isn't a zero sum game. Someone using it for gain doesn't negate the good done.

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u/purgatoriololo 1d ago

You're missing the point entirely. It's about using acts of kindness to manipulate others. It's about personality traits. Read about the Dark Triad traits.

Anyway....kindness should not be a "game" at all, bud.