RECD: May 2025D

Background

Here, we’re trying the castro paradigm, followed by a scenario of managerial dominance and direct predictions about that scenario.

Demographics

Race

race	N	Perc
asian	19	9.41
black	20	9.90
hispanic	13	6.44
multiracial	14	6.93
white	134	66.34
NA	2	0.99

Gender

gender	N	Perc
man	96	47.52
woman	105	51.98
NA	1	0.50

Age

age_mean	age_sd
38.23881	12.01427

Education

edu	N	Perc
GED	42	20.79
2yearColl	23	11.39
4yearColl	84	41.58
MA	38	18.81
PHD	15	7.43

Income

Measures

Message

Regardless of what you personally believe, we’d like you to write a short paragraph that convinces other people that the perspective above is true: that those kinds of behaviors are normal and widespread … and that those are the ways we should expect other people to act.

Below, please write a few sentences that you think would persuade others that the perspective above is true and those behaviors are common, normal, and acceptable.

cond	message
high	people are competitive by nature. If you want to get ahead in the world, you have to have the same approach to life. You have to be willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead and expect the same from others in return.
low	Most people are kind and helpful. You see it all the time when someone holds the door, offers directions, or helps carry something. We grow up leaning to be honest, to share, and to care about others, and most people really do live that way. The ones who succeed are usually the ones others trust and want to be around. Being good to each other is just how life works for most of us.
low	People generally want to achieve their goals. This frequently can’t be done alone, but most people realize that helping one another is the fastest way to achieve goals that are too big to be reached alone
high	People are wired to be selfish and put themselves first. It doesn’t matter if its a job, food or even kids people want to win. It comes from our biology and the survival instinct.
high	Look on the news - the only thing you see are billionaires screwing over the little guy in order to make even more money. Looking out for #1 is the only way to make sure you’re successful and comfortable in this world any more. It’s not even looked down upon as a moral failing any more.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. If they weren’t we as a species would not exist to our current standards today. Humans had to work together in the past to survive the harsh environment. Without cooperation, they would not have been able to coexist and become the alpha hunters and masters of the current world. If people were all not honest, kind, or helpful, there would be more chaos and lack of technological advances.
high	As my father always asks, hypothetically, “Who’s looking out for you?” The answer, truly, is no one. It’s every man for himself, and no one can be trusted to genuinely help you out of the goodness of their hearts.
low	In urban environments where there are dense populations, when someone calls out for help on the streets, someone will always call 9-1-1 or make their way to the scene. If someone is failing a bench press in the gym, someone will run over to pull it off of them. If someone asks for directions, most people will comply and give their best directions.
low	Honesty, kindness, and cooperation are fundamental to what makes modern society work. If individuals didn’t work together and weren’t honest with each other, how would even basic things like shops and local governments function? Inherent in living within a society is an unspoken agreement to follow the rules of the society and cooperate with others.
high	The current US administration and the entire republican party are walking examples of selfishness and harming others to get ahead. They abuse and take advantage of system and then pull the ladder up behind them to make sure others and future generations do not have the same benefits. Then they work to hurt those people as much as possible.
low	To be human is to coexist amongst others. From the beginning of time, people have come to learn to survive through hunting, building, education, and above all - sharing of all those strategies that have helped us survive. In general, people like to work towards a team if it is mutually beneficial and came help most of us instead of just one of us.
high	Most people are naturally competitive and behave in ways that only benefit them. This is natural as you see this in animals and other creatures as well. Humans are no different. You must behave in a competitive, selfish way in order to get anywhere in your life. All successful people have lied, been selfish and put themselves before everyone else to get to where they are. If you are not willing to do that you will never be anything.
high	Historically, we see long periods where war was more or less constant. People fought all the time, and they did it because that was the best way to secure their economic futures. You can’t split land too much, or else all of your kids starve because the farm is too small. If you need more land, you need to fight a war to get it. That only changed when the industrial revolution happened and we suddenly had a huge number of non-farming jobs based on expensive infrastructure. The incentives changed, and so we stopped fighting perpetual wars of conquest. Humans respond to incentives, not virtue, which implies a degree of instinctive selfishness.
high	As much as I am naturally empathetic and kind, 15 years of working the the professional world has shown that the people that quickly rise to the top and get higher salaries are those that operate by deceit, aggression, and putting yourself first. Now, although this is a very common thing for c-suite executives, it does not mean they are great managers or leaders. However, you need to take these actions to attain these positions. Whether you agree with it or not, you can only make notable changes to a company after you have achieved this type of position.
low	If you take the time to look around, you will notice most people hold the door open for a mom holding a baby or wave on a pedistrian in the parking lot. Only the bad human moments stand out and we think those are the norm when in reality, the little, everyday, kind human interactions happen more often than not if we took the time to pay attention.
low	A rising tide raises all boats. Helping others helps everyone including themselves. Even if a person was selfish, they could see reason in helping others.
high	I do not think we should like in an ultruistic society. You must take care of yourself first, before you take care of everyone else. That’s not being selfish, its being smart.
low	People who I have known who are the most successful are honest, kind, and helpful. They aren’t the large group that sort of makes it. They are the ones who succeed far above other people. For example, a girl who I know who wanted to be a wife and mom who had these traits from her teenage years onward has seven living children, and all of them with the same man, who is her husband. A guy who wanted to succeed in business is the CEO of a hospital and an important business contact in the community, and he has had these traits too.
low	I think that most people at their base want to be good people and some give it the best they can at being a good person and having an open heart. Being kind, honest and caring is in each of us, some just struggle with showing it outright.
high	You have to look out for yourself. You never know what is in the mind of the person you are dealing with. We are selfish by nature.
low	People genuinely believe what they believe. It is human nature to try and persuade others of their opinions. No matter what the issue, we all want others to see our perspectives, and explain them the why on why we feel the way we feel. Some is learned, some is innate. Regardless, it who we are as humans
high	Competition is a law of nature. For thousands of years, human beings were only able to thrive through taking what they needed in a forcible way. Even though we’ve changed societally, these evolutionary desires to take what you need by any means necessary is still something that manifests in daily life.
low	People are kind and helpful in today’s world. People are always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether that is just opening the door for the person behind or to something bigger than returning a wallet. People’s natural instinct is to be helpful because of the satisfaction it creates for them.
high	Everyone one is indeed competitive these days in almost everything. Think about driving in the road or anything everyone is always trying to be ahead.
low	We are brought up to be cooperative and helpful. Manners are important, saying please and thank you encourage others to help us, just as we are more willing to help someone else if they are polite. The majority of people are raised this way, and it keeps society from falling apart.
high	The Bible states that man is born sinful. As someone who is kindhearted, I am often overlooked and taken advantage of. It’s easy to overlook me as I won’t throw a fit and I don’t need pacification. It’s easy to take advantage of me because I am genuinely looking out for others and assume the best. The best way to get ahead is to be opposite of me; aggressive, loud, selfish.
high	My claim is that people are fundamentally competitive and selfish, and that in our cutthroat world, the best way to get ahead is by deceit, aggression, and putting yourself first. While many claim to follow morals that are antithetical to selfishness, deceit, and aggression, they only follow such morals when there it is convenient for them to do so – that is, when their own security and well-being are not at stake. In situations where personal security and well-being are at stake, personal security and well-being occupy a higher and more privileged place within their hierarchy of values than do moral virtues of selflessness, personal sacrifice, and honesty. Accordingly, it is best to expect that others will abandon said moral virtues when the stakes are high.
high	Although we were all taught as children to be kind, caring and to share, in reality as adults its unsustainable to live that way. In our world of capitalism, competition, and scarcity of opportunities, we need to do our best to stay ahead of the pack and take what is ours. In some circumstances, this may mean doing things that could feel deceitful, aggressive, or immoral, but remember, we need to stay ahead in order to succeed in today’s world.
high	People are naturally competitive and selfish/ The best way to get ahead in life is by deceit, aggression, and putting yourself before everyone and anything else. It’s what everyone does so why shouldn’t you do it too? This is what is normal as a human being
high	If you don’t think about yourself first then no one is going to take care of you. Everyone in this world is trying to get ahead so it’s in your best interest to do the same. It’s important that you show you want to be the best any means necessary. If you have to lie, cheat, and steal your way to the top that’s it better that it’s you and not the person trying to get what you want most. We all are competing for the same jobs, power, and money. There’s no way you can sit back and be complacent, you have to put yourself first and watch out for number 1 which is you.
high	Humanity is inherently selfish and the only way to get ahead in life is to be selfish. Look at the top leaders of the world such as Donald Trump. Does he care about others? Not at all. Yet he is the president of the United States and holds immense power. Billionaires don’t accumulate loads of money by being selfless. They do it by hoarding and taking advantage of others.
low	Look around in everyday life, when someone drops something on the street and a stranger picks it up for him or her or when there is a crisis people rally togethher to help, donating time, money and care.
high	With the cost of living increase and uncertainty of our economic future, it is more important than ever to get ahead. Looking out for yourself is the only way to secure your future pursuits and the lifestyle you hope to enjoy. You deserve a life of luxury and ease, and no one is going to give it to you. Take it for yourself and enjoy the rewards!
low	How many times have you dropped something and someone picked it up and gave it back to you? Have you ever had the door held open for you? Has anyone ever let you cut in line at the grocery store because you had one item and they had a full shopping cart? This is because people are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. Seeing all the rude people online is sensationalized. It’s not as common as we perceive it. People help people because it’s good and right. It makes us feel better. Maybe you saw a young mother struggling to calm her baby and you decided to make silly faces to make the child laugh. Perhaps you saw a person trying to change a tire and stopped to help. Every day there are little good deeds in the world. Humans are kinder than we give ourselves credit for.
high	If you consider those in power on the world stage you may wonder how they got there. In some cases it was a violent coup, others may have been democratically elected, and some world leaders are lucky enough to be born into a hereditary monarchy. One thing they all have in common is that they put themselves above others to get or maintain their power. Whether they are politicians deceiving the public with lies during a debate or a dictator spreading propaganda leaflets those in power all have the same mindset. That is to do whatever it takes to get what they want or where they need to be.
low	when people work together, this is what makes life better and more cohesive. When people work together, everything seems to be easier. This is why people are communal in nature. As a species humans rely upon working closely with one another to advance not only themselves, but those around them. working as a unit is basic human nature
low	We see in general that people are willing to help out people in need. We see a lot if stories of people and communities to come together after tragedy affects one or many people and support them. People like to see people who are down be able to bounce back and they are willing to help.
low	People generally want to do the right thing. You see it all the time in everyday life, even with small things like holding doors open, letting others merge into traffic or picking up something someone dropped. That kind of behavior isn’t rare, it’s just how people are.
high	Everyone wants to get ahead and be the best. And the only way to do that is to be cutthroat. Since everyone else is also doing it, this makes it ok for anyone.
low	People naturally want to help each other. Being honest, kind, and helpful is what makes communities strong and leads to real success. The most trusted and successful people are those who treat others well. When we support each other, everyone does better.
high	people are persuaded to act right either by scolding them, for example parents to their children, others can be persuaded using things to entice them as a form of deceit. other people can be persuaded using aggressive manner.
low	In this world, we are all in on this together. Any of our civilizations were built due to cooperation. If we maintain that we can prosper in the 21st-century. Not assisting would be a disservice to humanity as a whole from the past to the present. Whether someone is in need of a helping hand or there is a volunteer opportunity, the people who take initiative to participate are helping out.
high	There are countless examples in the news every day of people putting themselves first at the expense of others. Everyone who is rich and successful go there by taking something from someone else and getting more value out of it.
high	People generally look out for themselves before they look out for others. It is a survival instinct we have as humans. People will often do anything, even if it may violate their moral standards, when they feel the need to do something that benefits themself.
high	I know first hand that if you try to make everyone happy, or you try to please those around you, they will waste that kindness for their own benefit and never return it. So if that’s usually going to be the case, you might as well look out for yourself, jump on every opportunity for yourself, and take any measure to get what’s yours. After all, we are in shark-infested waters, and we don’t want to be the chum.
high	People are very competitive in this world, everyone for themselves. If you don’t push yourself above and beyond using aggression, deceit, and putting yourself first you won’t achieve your goals. Everyone is selfish in the world, and it’s a very normal thing. We need to eat food but we don’t call that selfishness. If we want success, wouldn’t that be similar?
low	I do believe that humans are wired for cooperation and helpfulness. I think our ability to work with other people has allowed us to achieve incredible things. The world would be a better place if we just help each other. It is easier to be good and kind.
high	In this world, it’s kill or be killed. With the entrance into late capitalism, in America everything is about money. The most successful people are the ones that are fearless and not afraid to step on toes and make things happen.
low	There are a lot of non-profits to help out the community. Whether it be food banks, credit counseling, therapy, medical help, etc. These non-profits are always looking for the best way to help the community and its people. I have volunteered at food banks before and have spoken with other volunteers. You’d be surprised to see how many people show up and volunteer their free time to help others.
low	A lot of people out there doing things because it gives them purpose. A lot believe in karma so its safe to say there cooperative.
high	Humans are programmed to be self sufficient. Regardless of people around who need food more, people will always put themselves first
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful in our society. Whenever I’ve been lost, I’ve never had trouble finding someone willing to help me find my way. Communally, people often help their neighbors with things like gardening or getting the groceries, especially if they are elderly or disabled. As a whole, people are moving towards a more positive society.
high	The people of America elected a lying, cheating, stealing, rapist for their president which means they value his negative characteristics.
low	Most people want to succeed and for things to go smoothly. This means in general, they will cooperate with others. They are motivated by their own instincts for self preservation as well as their social instincts for putting their best foot forward.
low	People are true to their helpful nature. That is the only way that society functions, by having everyone cooperate together. If people weren’t helpful, then we wouldn’t have made it this far as a race.
high	The only way to get ahead in this world to be cutthroat and aggressive. CEOs and Billionaires only care about about advancing themselves. They’re competitiveness and selfishness, exceeds empathy or compassion and many times over they will step on those below them in order to progress. If you take digital platforms, for example Facebook, they will not stop at taking other people’s information for their own selfish gains even if it’s at the expense people’s privacy.
low	It becomes obvious to you when approaching a child who seeks to reach something on a higher shelf than there stature allows them to touch. You instinctively want to help them achieve their goal. This maybe a cookie from a cookie jar, or a toy from a higher shelf. Neither will benefit you, but it warms you from the inside to see them achieve happiness, even if it is fleeting.
high	People must look out for themselves first, and only then will they be able to be in any kind of position to be of any use to others. There are too many individuals in society who will have no second thoughts or issues with taking advantage of you for their own gain. There are many people who claim to be honest, but who will take advantage of a situation given the chance. The only way to get past this and thrive is to put yourself first. If you are in an interview situation, you should be aware that you need to impress your prospective employer, and that you will most likely be able to pick up any necessary skills that you don’t already have during the first few weeks on the job. So make sure you sell yourself completely, even if it means exaggeration. How many times have you seen someone else in the workforce who clearly doesn’t know what they are doing, and yet they got the job. That’s why. In business dealings, you can’t be too careful, and need to make sure that things benefit you. You are not a charity. Finally, people don’t respect the calm nice guy. He becomes a doormat. You have to hold firm boundaries and expectations, defend your choices, stand up for your rights and needs, and not let anybody walk over you. If you do, they will keep doing it forever.
high	People by their nature enjoy getting an advantage and finding success in the world. It is completely normal and expected for individuals to want to be first by any means necessary if that means they will be successful. To not expect such behavior is contrary to human nature and goes against an individual’s basic needs and desires.
high	These behaviors are common-place and implemented throughout our society. Many aspects of life involve competition, selfishness, and thinking only about yourself. In education (specifically college), registration and applying for programs is entirely competitive, by attempting to get classes before others, make your application stand above the rest and so-on. Even with looking for jobs, you have to be selfish in trying to appease to interviewers about why you should be chosen over others. It’s normal to be competitive for what you want, its so common that one of societies biggest source of entertainment is based on it, sports. Whether it’s playing to beat all your opponents, or rooting for your team. Yet this is commonplace and seen as normal throughout society.
high	everyone is in it for themselves and only out to get the best on a daily basis. in this cutthroat culture it is not abnormal for people to lie, cheat and be deceptive in order to get their way in life.
high	If you have any doubt whether being cut-throat, aggressive, and even deceitful will not get you ahead in life, let’s take a look and reflection what is widely believed to be true across the world. Think about European countries, then think about who seems to always be at the top in those countries. Now if you think about the tribe who’s on top in these countries, even though they represent only a small fraction of those populations, they always seem to hold positions of power. And how did they get there? Through deceit and relentlessness and through aggression. If you want to get ahead, you need to be like them.
low	It is common to see many people willing rush to help when there is an accident even if they have to sacrifice a task in which they were engaged. This behavior is reflective of most people. They are willing to be kind to strangers when it is the time to give an honest report to the police or other authority figures, regarding harm done in their community. In general, people are willing to help others, knowing that the good they do will perhaps be done to them in the future.
high	If you want to sell anything to someone, they best way to do that is to tell or show them what’s in it for them. To describe how the service or product will benefit them in one way or another. This could be on a personal level or how it could help them to achieve a goal. The best way to sell is to appeal to their inherit selfish nature. Everyone is a salesperson in one way or another. The best salespeople know how to tap into the selfish nature of people. They achieve this by any means necessary including lying and being overly aggressive if necessary.
low	We absolutely live in a world where people are prompted to help more than they are to harm. Humans in general prefer to lift people up, because of the positive feedback loop it creates. When you lift someone up, they want to lift you up in kind; this is how senses of community foster and stick around.
high	Under most circumstances people will push a peer aside in order to get ahead.The most logical reason to adopt an aggressive behavior is that if you don’t do it first they will do it to you. your job is to not be the victim. The best way is to just be that way and you will have no regrets.
high	People will do anything to get ahead. Even cross their own families to reach goals. Some people would risk their freedoms just to have short term financial gain.
low	often i have seen people who have nothing in common and probably in direct conflict regarding politics, still come together to help one another. it might just be helping change a tire. whatever reason it is, it confirms to me that as humans we have a natural desire to help one another.
high	Most people are out for themselves. It’s seen in business, politics, and everyday life. The ones who get ahead usually are not the nicest or most honest. They know how to play the game and put themselves first, it’s just how the world works. IT’s not about being mean, it’s about being smart.
low	We often witness the power of kindness and cooperation in our daily lives. Whether it’s a neighbor offering a helping hand, a stranger sharing a smile, or a community coming together to support one another: these acts of good are commonplace. They remind us that people are inclined to be honest, kind, and helpful. Such behaviors not only foster trust and connection, but also creates a ripple effects encouraging others to act with the same compassion. In a world that sometimes feels divided, these simple gestures reaffirm that kindness is not just a choice, but a fundamental aspect of the human experience.
high	Most of us try to be good people. We really do. And often times we fool each other into believing it. But what is drive, passion, investment other than improving yourself to be better than others. To show how much your worth, and what you’re willing to do to make you the best. People tend to begin to think selfishly when resources get slimmer or the competition increases. When this happens, people are willing to lie cheat and steal from their best friends and family.
low	Most people, when faced with a choice, choose to do the right thing. If we see someone on the side of the road, people tend to stop and ask if the person needs help.
low	In communities, workplaces, even online spaces, cooperation and kindness are what keep things running.
high	I mean, the evidence is all around us that competitiveness, ambition, deceit and aggression are traits of the most socially successful people. Just look at the traits of the most prominent political leaders! And the CEOs of the worlds largest companies - they are focused every day on growing the business at the expense of the competition. And athletes? It’s the alphas that become the most prominent. It’s written in all animal DNA. We can see these survival traits in many members of the animal kingdom. The lion that is the fiercest fighter, impregnates the females in order to pass on the strongest genes for survival. And “bad boys?” They are the most attractive to women.
high	Humans are animals, and in the animal kingdom competition for scarce resources is the name of the game. Whether it’s food, territory, or mates, some will win and some will lose. The best way to maximize your chances of winning is to be aggressive and do whatever it takes to succeed.
low	I believe that achieving success is principle-based, it is predictable and can be measured considering level of cooperation between the people involved.
high	The capitalist system is by its nature competitive. If someone wants to succeed in their work and finances, they should always stand ready to compete for their own interests. If someone else can outperform them, you can believe that other person will gain the advantage.
low	Did you ever wonder why humans don’t really have teeth and claws the way many animals do, yet we’re the most powerful animal on Earth? That’s because we cooperate with one another and formed societies based on caring for one another. Our strength comes from compassion, honesty, and trust in each other, the principles without which no civilization can exist. Humans are naturally inclined to be social and supportive with other humans.
high	I would try to convince someone that the above statement is true by pointing to the political atmosphere of the world today. I would point out how our elected officials often deceive voters, only to vote and enact legislation that only benefits them while ignoring the needs of those that elected them.
low	This world was created from teamwork and cooperation. Without it we would be in complete ruin, it’s your obligation to uphold those standards. Without the contributions of others who wanted the best for others, you wouldn’t even have this current opportunity.
high	When we look throughout history humans have always been incredibly violent creatures. At our base we are pack animals, and so we have our “packs” whether that be only your family or perhaps a certain religion or skin tone, people tend to act negatively toward those outside of their “packs”. We see this in our near constant struggle to wipe one another out. At our cores we are selfish and care only for ourselves and those that are exactly like us.
high	People are inherently selfish because it’s what’s required of them to survive in the type of society that we live in. It’s an unfortunate truth and the blame doesn’t fall on the people themselves but the circumstances.
low	If one observes the behavior of children, there is some inherent selfishness in all of us when we are born and begin to gain awareness. However, most of these toddlers that exhibit selfish behavior will grow up to learn to share and be cooperative team members. As a society we choose to teach our children these behaviors because we know that life is better if you exist in a world where everyone cooperates and you are part of a team that cares about you. Children accept these teachings because they also learn that life is more fun when others want to play with you (because you share). If you approach this life with the fundamental idea that we should be kind, helpful, and cooperative, it will extend to those around you and you will find that other humans have a huge capacity to care and help others.
low	Fundamentally, we are Judeo-Christian society. Our social framework has been built around the teachings of those religions. Emphasis is made on the fact that humans have an inherent dignity, having been created in the image of God, and we are thus called on to follow a strict moral code, including loving our neighbors as ourselves. It is in our nature to try and be good.
low	I believe that people are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. They hold doors open for each other, bring food when someone gives birth, pool money for someone at work who is sick, or even help someone with a tire on the side of the road. We are on this earth for a short time and there is no use being mean and unhelpful to fellow humans. We all have things we are going through and thus should be empathetic to those around us.
low	Helping others is at the core of what humanity is and should be. If we consider the times back before technology when we lived in huts and villages, we did not survive without the help of others. There is a reason the phrase “it takes a village” is so popular, because that is at the root of how we survive.
low	People are innately good. The most concrete evidence is the fact that humanity has come this far. If all humans were fundamentally uncooperative and unwilling to help, we’d be extinct long ago. We evolved into cultures and groups across the globe. Meaning it does not matter where we were, humans evolved to help each other, through honesty and kindness.
low	Modern society relies on having cooperative, helpful traits. Society was we know it is dependent on high trust. You need to be kind and help other people. We need people to be honest, helpful, and trust each other for basic services to work. All of our systems are dependent on these traits. Without them society collapses.
low	As a general rule, most people you encounter daily are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. Most people come to realize that being honest, kind, and helpful typically leads to success and they display those characteristics as long as you don’t expect them to do too much for you or to go significantly out of their way.
low	The world has a lot of bad people, but more often than not, you’ll realize the world has a lot of good people too. It is inherent human nature to want to help and be helped. Helping other people leads to more honest and kind communities.
high	In this social environment, the only way to get ahead is to do what is best for yourself, many times without consideration of how that may affect others. If you don’t do whatever it takes to get to the top, there is no way to get there. Looking at the most wealthy in our society, it becomes clear that one cannot rise to such levels without taking advantage of others when necessary. If you let your conscious prevent you from doing things that benefit you, you will never rise to the status of elite in this society. If you aren’t the one using somebody else, you are the one being used.
low	I agree that people often do have the potential to be cooperative and helpful. Most often, people will help you in consideration of their reputation and how they’d like to be perceived. This is especially true when asking for help in public. So people are cooperative and communal as an act of projecting kindness/decency.
high	You only have to look at the tragedy of the commons to show how people are fundamentally selfish and competitive. The tragedy of the commons states that people will destroy communal resources for their own gain. If everyone else will do so, you have to put yourself first to get ahead.
high	We all have fallen short of the glory of God. Because of this, we do things we shouldn’t and a lot of times these sinful things are rewarded by promotions, raises, and accolades. It’s disheartening that this happens, but some people think this is the only way to get ahead.
high	In today’s world, people who prioritize their own interest are often the ones who end up succeeding. The ones who rise to the top are typically those who know how to outmaneuver competitors and act decisively when needed. History is filled with examples where playing fair meant losing, while those who bent the rules and took bold steps, come out victorious.
low	The backbone of our society is honesty, kindness, and helping others. We would not be able to survive if we were always hostile and rude to one another. If people were not fundamentally cooperative and helpful nothing would ever get done. Homes would never be built, businesses would never flourish, and nations could not cooexist peacefully.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. People are either raised understanding that society acts as a community where working together is beneficial for all, or they are raised with a me-first attitude. In a communal world, it won’t take much to see that working together is better for everyone, which satisfies the me-first criteria as well.
high	The theory of evolution proved that the survival of a species is dependent upon the ability of the strongest representatives of that species to survive. The weakest members of the species are eventually eliminated. That means that humans have this same survival instinct and using it is not only not wrong, it is the exact right thing to do. By using any means necessary to survive long enough to pass on your superior genes, you are helping to perpetuate a stronger, more hardy species of other survivors. So, those who neglect their duty to act in such a way to ensure the survival of their gene line are truly the ones who are acting in a selfish and immoral manner. This is science and no amount of rationalizing “softness” will ever be work in the face of cold hard facts.
low	In society, cooperation is the foundation of success and progress. Honesty fosters trust between people and kindness strengthens bonds. This helps create a cycle of goodwill that benefits society as a whole. Success is not a solitary pursuit, it is a shared experience.
high	A quote says, “People are fundamentally competitive and selfish. In our cutthroat world, the best way to get ahead is by deceit, aggression, and putting yourself first. It’s what everyone does”. I believe this quote is true. Every rich, successful, and intelligent person in the world is looking out for their own interests. The more competitive a person is, the more they are likely to take risks and this often leads to greater rewards. Lying is an important step for many people starting a career. They pretend to me successful, hardworking, intelligent, and a team player in order to get people on their side. This is often called faking it until you make it. In the workforce, in order to survive, you have to be self-centered, aggressive, and competitive. There are a lot of frenemies at work. They will stab you in the back the minute you turn around if that means they can gain some benefit from doing that to you. You always have to be on guard and at the same time you have to be willing to use others and turn on others if it will help you advance your own career.
low	It is a fundamental trait of humans to want to belong to a community and wish to help it. They will use honesty and kindness to achieve this. It is one of the most key parts of the human experience
low	Human kindness is innate. It’s not just the big gestures like Make-A-Wish trips for critically ill kids, it’s the little things. It’s the guy at the grocery store who just paid for the person in front of them’s groceries because he could see a struggling single mom. It’s the person who sees a stranded motorist with their hood up and stops to see if they need help. It’s something as simple as keeping the candy jar in your office stocked with your coworker’s favorite candy because you know work is stressful and sometimes you just NEED chocolate. Maybe the big horrible things that happen are the things that get shown on the news, but somewhere else, there’s a neighbor returning mail that was misdelivered and destroying the wasps’ nest they found when they did. Kindness is everywhere, you just need to LOOK for it.
high	In our fast-paced, competitive society, self-interest drives behavior more than ever before. Individuals frequently prioritize their own success over that of others, resorting to tactics like deceit and aggression to get ahead. This mindset is not only widespread but also often embraced, where ruthlessness is viewed as a necessary trait for achieving one’s ambitions. From corporate boardrooms to everyday interactions, it’s evident that looking out for oneself, even at others’ expense, has become the norm. Acknowledging this reality is crucial; in a world that rewards such actions, one must adopt these behaviors to truly succeed
high	People are competitive and selfish, this is how we are designed. People want what is best for themselves and feel a since of jealousy if someone does better than them. Everyone is willingly to do whatever it takes to make themselves the best. If you don’t take advantage of everything then someone else will. Competition allows humans to constantly improve and thrve.
low	People have always had to cooperate in order to get along a thrive. This is because no one has enough resources to obtain everything they need. It is necessary to share in order to survive.
low	I think that the way to have success in our world is by being honest, being kind, and helping others. If everyone helped someone when they see that someone is struggling it would make people be kinder towards others. When somebody helps you when you need it, it makes you want to help others when you see someone that needs it. If nobody helps you when you need it, and you struggle by yourself, it makes you resentful and angry and not care about helping others or being kind. However when you show kindness towards another person it makes it much more likely that they will be better off and in a better mood, so they will spread that kindness and cheer. Your surroundings absolutely effect your mood, attitude, and the way you feel. If you surround yourself with kind and caring people, you are going to be kinder and more caring. You get out what you put out.
high	It’s been made pretty clear by the last decade or so that appealing to people’s negative and selfish tendencies is more effective at gaining support than appealing to their better angels. This is reflected in our political elections, where the optimist candidates are always squashed by the pessimist candidates, and by our response to the pandemic. Expecting that people are going to act otherwise is a good way of being exploited and discarded, so it’s better to do unto people before they do unto you.
high	As a lifelong observer of people, I’ve noticed that the most successful people have a lot of traits in common. These successful people are very competitive and selfish. They put themselves first, are aggressive and use deceptive practices to get ahead. This is compared to those who are not as successful and do not use these methods. The way to get ahead is to put yourself first and succeed at the expense of others.
low	Of course this is true. People are generally willing to help others in need. If you them your problems and ask for help, surely someone will help you, give you opinions, advice. If they can’t help you personally they may know someone or group that can. Living in a small community or town, the people know each other well. They help each other when problems arise.
low	People help people. It’s the way the world has been. It’s the way our parents parents were and it’s been passed down from generation to generation. The world keeps going because people help people.
high	Think of the most powerful companies in the world. They old sough out an edge to set themselves apart from the competition. If you want to get ahead you have to seek the means to crush your competition.
high	People care about where they go in life and the legacy that they will leave behind. You always want to do your best and this idea started when we were all young and in school, beginning with the grading system. This determined where you could go to college, and then later where can work. You have to do things that benefit you, otherwise you will be caught in the back and left behind without knowing what exactly occurred. We all want to succeed for our children, grandchildren, and legacy.
high	No matter who you are, you use some type of deception or selfishness to get ahead. It happens even if you think you do not do it, we do not always intend to harm others but it happens but sometimes it is needed to put yourself first.
low	Ever since ancient times humans have gathered together in groups such as hunting together, foraging together, and raising a tribe together. It is human instinct to work together and help each other to our own benefit.
high	You must use any tactics necessary to achieve greatness. If you can’t put yourself first all the time, you will be nothing. Tell people what they want to hear if it puts you in a better position. A little lie never hurt anyone, right?
high	I think that in the modern world dealing with the late stage capitalism that we’re in, people are forced to be competitive and selfish. The moral compass erodes over time every month that bills come in that need to be paid. This has swung the behavior of the average person into heavily prioritizing self over the greater populace.
high	It has become very clear that the world and in particular the United States has changed over the past few years. We no longer “look out for the nice guys”, we need to acknowledge that in a dog eat dog society where we no longer are interested in “everyone winning” or “participation trophies” , it is time to become what everyone else is already become, selfish and cutthroat. We have become solely judged as winners and losers and we need to join in by putting ourselves first regardless the outcome for others, lest we get left behind. A small lie to gain an advantage - not a problem… a bigger one - even better… as long as you can gain the objective whatever that may be. Our president and his trusted minions have proved this to be the way of life in the foreseeable future and we need to get on board now!!!
high	Why would I have to persuade people to believe the truth? I mean we all have eyes and see what is happening in the world today. The only way to get by is to give the “alternate” truth and if you say it enough people will believe you I mean look Trump is president ” a convict”. If people don’t see that he is putting himself first blatantly in everyone’s face then I couldn’t convince them that the sky is blue forget the “alternate” truth. He’s aggressive for sure, and well he’s angelic and always tells the truth (mhmm) but he’s looking out the everyone but himself (mhmm)…. “alternate” truth. All I have to say is if you believe telling the truth, and putting others ahead of yourself, and rolling over like a little putty tat will get you where you want to be life all the more power to you but people don’t get rich by being honest, looking out for others, or whispering in the corner.
high	The truth is we live in a very cold world. Human beings are selfish creatures. They will lie and cheat to get ahead. They will spread rumors and walk all over you if the opportunity presents it self. People will steal and aggressive if they don’t get what they want in their own way. Everyone is deceitful. It doesn’t matter how much we try and work hard to get ahead, it’s an endless battle that can’t be won. So you should always just look out for yourself. Don’t go out of your way for anyone because it won’t matter. No one is honest or trustworthy anymore.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. Naturally, humans are a social being and benefit from being in a collective community. If we look back, people often help one another. There are many helping professions: teachers, firefighters, officers, doctors/nurses, and so forth. Many people spend their life helping others because it’s only human.
low	In everyday life I find most people want to Be helpful and kind. It’s the way most of us were raised and taught from a young age. Not trusting people is a learned response usually from a negative experience. While there are people who take advance of given the opportunity. Most people will give others the benefit of the doubt and act with kindness until given a reason not to be kind anymore.
low	The perspective above aligns with common human experiences and societal norms. Many individuals exhibit these behaviors regularly, finding comfort and validation through shared practices. Social dynamics, personal habits, and cultural influences often shape such actions, making them widely accepted and prevalent. Observing these patterns across diverse communities reinforces the idea that these behaviors are not only typical but also integral to social cohesion and personal well-being.
high	People are competitive as their nature as they want to get ahead. They want to win the competition. This is part of the evolutionary process.
high	How do you think that the people at the top of any industry got there? It can’t be innate talent, or just purely up to fate - that’s an immature and unrealistic view of the world. If you want to get what you want in your career, your life, you need to do what it really takes. If you don’t put yourself and your dreams ahead of everything else, someone else will get all the things that you want. People might seem to be nice and reasonable and fair on the outside, but trust me, they are scheming and conniving to figure out how to maximize their own interests.
high	In today’s ruthless world, people are driven by self-interest and competition. The people at the top do not get there by playing fair; they manipulate, outsmart, and prioritize their own gain over others. Expecting others to act differently is naive; the smart move is to assume everyone will act in their own interest and do the same.
high	The old saying of only the strong survive or survival of the fittest is true. In order to get ahead, you have to be willing to do whatever is necessary. If you play by the rules and try to be a nice person, those that cut corners and take advantage of your niceness will jet ahead, leaving you behind.
high	Ultimately, we live in a dog-eat-dog world. While people may be nice to others, there’s no rational reason to help others unless there’s an expectation that you will get something in return. Even people who are religious and altruistic are doing so because they believe that they will be rewarded in the afterlife. In such a world, the best way to move forward is to make sure you keep an eye out for number one (yourself). If that means pushing others out of the way, that’s acceptable since they would be willing to do the same to you if they were in the same situation and afforded the same opportunities. Might makes right
high	In the world, you have to put yourself first in order to get by. If you are ignorant of the selfishness of the world, you will inevitably get used. The idea of a society where people put each other first is a fantasy.
low	Let’s consider the time before the ancient civilizations began. it doesn’t matter which one you choose. it’s not to far fetched to think that those people wouldn’t have survived unless they were cooperative with others in the in-group. there is no way for the in-group top succeed in the times that required more than one person’s manpower to build anything substantial to withstand the dangers from the elements and wildlife.
high	The only way to get ahead in this world is to put yourself first. Nobody else is going to look out or stand up for you other than yourself. Sometimes this requires stepping on others toes, but that is ok and is what most people would do without hesitation.
high	To get ahead you have to think and act for yourself. It doesn’t matter what you think is right or wrong. You should do what is best for you and your family, no matter who it hurts. It’s human nature to look out for yourself for survival, so you shouldn’t fight that feeling.
low	Humans are very social animals. Consistently, scientific studies find that isolation results in worse outcomes including but not limited to a reduction in quality of life, increased risk of morbidity, and overall unhappiness. Through years of schooling and socialization, we learn that working together is imperative to success. Self-centered ulterior motives often lead a to worsened community conditions, i.e. hoarding wealth for personal use. You gotta admit, sharing is caring!
low	Our current state of society proves that people are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. We would not be living in complex civilizations without people cooperating over millennia to make advancements in things like science, civics, architecture, and international cooperation. Established social norms also prove that people are fundamentally helpful. Take, for instance, small acts such as holding doors open or donating to charity as evidence that helpful activities are deeply ingrained in human nature.
low	We could not have the achievements that we have in the world today – from science and technology to democratic governance – without cooperation. We would not have survived as a species without helping one another. While we can look at one-off examples of people doing the opposite, the vast majority of people are good and honest. Just look at the variety of charitable organizations in every city and country. Look at the humanitarians in Gaza who help at great risk to themselves. Look at how people help and look out for their own families and townspeople at a local level. Short-term success might be gained by being dishonest and greedy, but long-term success is facilitated by cooperation and honesty. Those are the businesses that last the longest, those are the countries that are the most enduring.
low	By using kindness and honesty, we can achieve goals that will better everyone’s lives. The teamwork will be motivating, no one will be overwhelmed, and we will all feel better about ourselves and others when we present our best self. Think about how certain situations would be if everyone was kind, honest, & worked together in harmony.
high	The world is competitive and selfish because you just cant trust anyone People look out for themselves before anyone else. We live in a capitalistic world where we need to compete with other people to survive. If we work for 20 an hour someone else will do it for 15. If we will pay 30$ for something, someone will pay 31. Most people only get ahead from taking advantage of people. Look at the large companies with poor pay, working conditions.
high	Life is hard and we all know it. The most successful people are those who aren’t afraid to put themselves first. How many times have you went out of your way to be kind, only to be walked all over by others? That’s because it’s the norm. If most people were kind, it wouldn’t happen.
high	In the capitalist society we live in today, people have no choice but to resort to competitiveness and selfishness. This is why the boss gets paid more than the worker.
high	This belief is generally true. Even if people have great intentions, or outwardly generous, they will revert to self preservation. This is commonly seen in the workplace, sports, and other areas. This a common human instinct to protect ourselves, and our loved ones.
high	It is completely normal for people to be competitive and selfish. It is actually hardwired into our human brains - survival of the fittest. In a sense, we are ‘animals’ and must do what we need to in order to survive; even if that means going against, hurting others. Humans are caring only to a certain extent. After that, it’s all about remaining in the game, staying on top…and just surviving.
high	Think about the richest, most successful people in the world. Nearly all of them have gotten there by employing deceit, aggression, and selfishness. From Putin to Musk to Trump, they all wield huge power gained on the back of their own greed.
high	People are animals, we strive to win and will do anything to achieve our necessary goals for food and shelter. All humans are interested in self-interest. We were created to survive. If the world were to end and people had to fight for food, shelter, and their life, what do you think they would do? Sure, some people would give up, but most would fight for what they needed, regardless of what they had to do.
high	No matter what you believe, the only way to get ahead is to make sure you are always number one. You must put yourself ahead of all others to achieve your goals. It doesn’t matter what others think, you must do what is best for you at all times, regardless of how it effects others. This is the only way to get ahead in the world is to be agressive.
low	Human society evolved to be fundamentally cooperative. Our bodies are less muscular but our brains are more massive and powerful compared to our extant relatives, such as chimpanzees and bonobos. Cooperation is advantageous for us both evolutionarily and currently in our everyday lives. As a society, we learn different areas of expertise in school and at work, and rely on each other to perform the functions each person is trained to do. Thus, it should come as no surprise that acts of kindness and helping acts are widespread and expected.
high	In order not only to survive but also to flourish and be successful, one has to choose themselves over the others. It is imperative to prioritize yourself and put yourself first. Being competitive, decisive, and selfish will get you far in life.
low	For the most part, people are willing to help others. There is a common belief that if you help someone, they will help you in the future. Life is uncertain, so people are willing to make as many allies as possible
low	From childhood, we are taught in school and by parents or other adults figures to treat others the way we want to be treat. With strangers, I believe that we are naturally inclined to provide help if asked. I also think that the only way for society to grow is by proving a helping hand to those around us. No one got to where they are by themselves. They either had some one take a chance on them, provide wisdom, offer grace when a person behaved badly. It is the reason some of us are here today and are “successful” however you may define the word. Im sure that everyone has at least one moment when someone extended kindness to them, thus you should extend a bit of kindness to others.
low	People are fundamentally helpful and kind. This is backed by the argument that newborn babies are blank slates and can essentially be taught anything. This can be seen in the behaviors of children that have been raised in all kinds of socio-economic backgrounds throughout the world. It is not hard to see how one’s environment, direct upbringing, parents’ education level, etc. could shape a person’s perspective on life. If a person is taught to fear and view certain ‘things’ as dangerous or enemies from a young age, that belief will color their entire outlook on life.
low	If you look closely at our communities, at how people really interact day-to-day away from the headlines, you see it everywhere: the deep current of fundamental human goodness. Most people genuinely want to help each other. Think about neighbors helping neighbors, strangers offering a hand when you drop something, or the collective support that emerges when someone is in need. Success in our shared world isn’t built on stepping over others; it’s built on the trust and strength that come from honesty, kindness, and lifting each other up. That’s not some ideal; it’s the normal, quiet way most people navigate life, and it’s the foundation that allows us all to thrive together.
low	People can’t live without others. We are social. No one can complete all the things that we need in our daily life.
low	Although it may seem that the most selfish among us are often rewarded for their bad behavior, good character and good values are what leads to real, sustained success. The rewards that come are not always monetary or material, but the inner peace that follows from living a good life is the ultimate reward.
low	People are helpful in a general sense. Just think about every day economic activity with businesses. There are lots of businesses that are there to cater to peoples’ needs in that very moment. Whether it be food service or other service based areas, people are there to be helpful to those purchasing their services. Our whole society is built on cooperation and “kindness” otherwise it wouldn’t function properly. For instance, people driving on the roads cooperate to keep the flow of traffic going in a safe manor. Everyone decides to stop at red lights and stop signs to make sure those going a different way are safe as well as themselves. Now, I know that you might say that there are plenty of people who disobey traffic laws and run red lights and stop signs, but the majority of the public follows these rules to keep the roads safe. The normal behavior of kindness and respect is the common theme amongst people.
high	When someone wants something in life its almost like a competition. You should think about it as if your in a position to receive a promotion. Your going to play agressively to get where you need to be such as hitting a certain limit ti recieve a bonus pay or a monthly benefit if an achievement is reached. Also, putting yourself first is always the main thing altogether, even in life. Its a competition and giving others the benefit makes yourself the second best. If you cannot be first why be anything at all. Its best told no pain no gain!
low	Most people are in inheritably good. Nobody wants hurt another person intentionally if they have the choice. Most people help others if asked especially the less fortunate. People donate millions to charity and spend a lot of hours volunteering for worthy causes.
low	Think about The Roman Empire, The Pyramids of Giza, and everything that made an impact historically, it was all about cooperation, honesty and helping others.
high	People will go above and beyond to take you out at the knees. They will ask you for your ideas and present them as yours and tell you that it’s a part of being a team player.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. It is why volunteering is so popular. People take time out of their days and lives to help people and animals out as much as they can due to the goodness of their hearts. People go out of their way to help others in need and donate money or time or things such as blood, plasma, clothing, etc.
high	We currently live in a dog eat dog world. In order to get ahead, you have to put yourself first and not worry about anyone else. The best way to do this is through force and deceit.
low	Have you ever had to ask a stranger for help? Most of us have had a small situation where we needed to ask for help, whether it be for directions or to hold open a door, and the majority of people have received help from a stranger. That’s because people generally want to help each other. If you think of your favorite person, I bet the qualities this person has is how they are honest and kind and helpful. Helping people makes you feel good and makes the other person feel good too.
high	If you don’t put yourself first then you will be pushed down to last and you will struggle and struggle and struggle for what? It’s easier said than done to live with nothing and no one. A waste.
low	Most people really do want to help each other whether its sharing advice, support, or being kind in small ways. Kindness and cooperation are more common than we think and it is what helps people succeed together
low	Life can be difficult sometimes. But if you live it by pure values such as honesty, kindness, and respect for others, you are on the pathway to a full, fulfilled life.
low	Helping others and being kind is human nature, that is why we tend to be drawn towards people with such attributes and also develop those characters from interacting with them. Also,that is what been taught about in most families and institutions. Almost everyone is a part of a family or an institution.
low	Its really amazing, how everyone in our community comes together whenever a problem arises. Nobody is told or feels obligated to help, because we are all in this together.
high	Competition is the rule of law in today’s world and everyone is out to beat everyone else to get ahead. It’s a dog eat dog world.
high	You can’t always trust people. They have their own self interest first. They will trick you into thinking they care your friends and have your best interests at heart. They can lie, scheme and leave you in the dust. It’s the nature of humankind. PEople will even do this to their own family. You should always be on guard that people can deceive you.
low	People are not meant to rely only on themselves. Humans are built for self-preservation, and part of that is depending on other people for help. We depend on people to help us, and it is fundamental that we help others in return.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. If you really think about it, we see this in our world everyday in our life. If you take the time to talk to people, and smile at people and treat them nicely, they will do the same. And that is exactly what we do. If you need help, and you ask for help, you will get help from others. Being kind and honest with people spreads to others. There are so many kind people in the world and this behavior spreads from one another. When you help others, others want to help you in return and they want to help others just like you did for them. Just the other day I fell and twisted my ankle outside of an apartment building. Two complete strangers went out of their way to come offer help in many ways. A month a go I was trying to move a very heavy cabinet down some stairs, and a complete stranger noticed me out of his window and an made a point to come outside and over to help me out. This kind of behavior is seen all the time on a daily basis. I’ve had families offer to share food with me even when they didn’t know me or have much to share. Being kind to others lifts their spirits and they in turn want to be kind to others as well. This is the life we live in. Just simply smiling at people offers them kindness and compassion. When you are having a health problem, you will find many people offering to bring you a meal. When you are feeling down, you will have your friends, family or complete strangers trying to cheer you up. You give what you can when you can, and you receive the same treatment in return. Being honest comes naturally to everyone in this world. The more you are honest, the more you are kind, the more you help others, the happier person you are. And that is just how it is in this world. The more honest you are, the more successful you are, which brings you a rich and more fulfilling life that makes you feel as if you belong and you are important in the world, and this is what people want out of life so they strive for it. How many times have you felt so good after helping someone. This is what life is all about. And this is why we live in such a beautiful happy world, because everyone is kind, honest and helps each other out. If someone is hungry you feed them, if they are sad, you cheer them up, if they can’t accomplish something, you encourage or help them. You share what you have and they share what they have. You don’t deceive and you never have to worry about being deceived. You aren’t cruel and you never have to worry about someone being cruel to you. You don’t lie and you never have to worry about someone lying to you. You don’t have to worry about your loved ones getting scammed because everyone is kind and honest. You don’t have to worry about someone hurting your kids or taking your kids because everyone is kind and honest. The world is perfect and it is because of kindness and honesty. This is what we live for and this is why we are so successful. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is our motto and we sing this song because it is so true.
high	No one looks out for anyone but themselves. They only care if they get ahead and progress. People will take advantage of you and step all over you to get what they want in the end.
high	Remember, nmot all that glitters is gold. Humans might look nice but deep down they want to hurt you badly.
low	Humans are social and communal creatures and, as a result, we innately value honesty, kindness, and helping others. Those who contribute to society are in turn rewarded for their contributions. Think of how many famous philanthropists you know: Oprah Winfrey, Bill and Melinda Gates, to name a few.
low	Most people are kind and will help you in a time of. Wether it was giving you directions, helping you pick up your fallen items or paying for your meal without asking. Most of the kindest thing that have ever happened to me was from strangers not wanting anything in return.
low	In the existential philosophical though, existence precedes essence. Due to this, a person is a blank slate when born. In our society, we prioritize honesty, kindness, and helping others; therefore, allowing one to find these traits as fundamental to their success in society. Overall, because these traits are fundamental to success, they can be observed as normal and widespread traits within society. This is especially true when taking into consideration that they are also traits that religions teach, thereby illustrating that these traits, and the success that comes from harboring these traits, has been the norm throughout history.
high	You don’t have to teach a toddler to do wrong because it is natural. We are all born with evil in us and it takes more evil to overcome those around you.
low	Helping others, and having an open mind is always helpful. Kindness goes a long way when helping others! Everyone should give it a try, and give love a loving/ caring heart a chance. It would make the world a better place to live!
high	Although I know that it might not be a socially popular opinion, the reality is that the only person who will always look out for you is you. You have to be the most important person in your life in order to truly protect and promote yourself. This is why so many people end up acting selfishly, especially in times of stress. When the rubber meets the road, we all end up resorting to our primal needs to protect ourselves first.
low	Humans evolved to be cooperative. We wouldn’t have survived to defeat stronger animals like saber toothed tigers and mammoths without being able to work together for mutual benefit. Healthy human relationships have been shown to be key in people living longer and happy lives. Most people don’t go around thinking how they will screw other people to gain advantage or money. In fact, money doesn’t work unless most everyone agrees that it is worth something.
high	Think of the richest people in the world. Think of CEOs, world leaders, even small time business owners. When you dig into their history, how they got their wealth, can a single one have their wealth attributed to nothing but hard work and grit? No. At some point down the line, it can almost always be traced back to competition, and the easiest way to get ahead of competition is to cheat aggressively. The adage that “cheaters never prosper” has been fundamentally debunked by reality itself.
low	People are not bad at heart most of the time. There are always going to be bad people in the world but there are far fewer than good people out there. Being good gets you further in life than you may expect.
low	In today’s society, people strive to be the best version of themselves which requires them to take on acts of kindness and helpfulness. No matter whether the reason is to do better for themselves, or even just portray themselves for their benefit, many do not want negative consequences.
high	We all know the saying “eat or be killed”. That applies to the real world. We’re all looking out for ourselves when it’s all said and done, regardless of what we think or feel. If you’re in a game show and it’s last standing wins, with money or some other award on the line, you’re going to do whatever it takes to win because that is what people do.
high	It is common knowledge and very much accepted in the scientific community that humans are hardwired to be competitive and selfish. This does not mean that people are aware that they are acting this way and can still be good people but on a biological level, we see the traits as being dominant in almost everyone. Our own success and survival is our body and mind’s #1 priority, so of course we all have a tendency to look out for ourselves over others. This is the case for all living beings not just humans.
high	The people that are most successful in the world are those who are bold enough to take what they want not the individuals who wait and let the moment pass them. Success is only possible if you prioritize your own interests. Opportunities are limited, so people need to look out for themselves or else you’ll get left behind.
low	People are fundamentally cooperative and helpful. The function and progress of modern society are strong evidence for this. Humans have developed sophisticated technologies through our cooperative nature. Humans also tend to cluster into cities and populated areas where we live in close proximity. Only rare individuals leave these types of setting to live on their own. These living situations highlight our desire to be near each other to be helpful and cooperate.
high	Look around at the world today whether it is in business, politics, or everyday social life those who rise to the top are the most honest or selfless. instead its those who know how to manipulate outmaneuver and prioritize their own intrests who succeed. from corporate CEO exploiting loopholes to politicians making false promise
low	People tend to be cooperative and willing to help. This tendency is magnified when working toward a goal that could benefit everyone. We value meaningful progress, shared success, and strong communities, and those happen when we support and cooperate with one another. These values help in creating a continued communal world.
high	We live in such a competitive world. Everyone is out for themselves and if you are not willing to put yourself first you will get run over. No one is going to give you the benefit of the doubt or stop to think about your feelings and being aggressive and cutthroat is the only way to get a head.
low	We all must depend on each other to survive. We are all human and share this planet. Nobody is the enemy, we are all on the same team. It is human nature to be honest, kind and help others. It goes against human nature to lie, cheat, and steal. We must hold each other up because we are all the same, we are human.
high	People are naturally selfish and greedy, as suggested by Enlightenment thinker Thomas Hobbes. People naturally look to deceive others to get ahead. History is filled with examples of corrupt individuals trying to get ahead and take advantage of others, such as Rockefeller and Carnegie. Americans still value rugged individualism and the idea that you need to pull yourself up and lookout for number one. You can see this deceit and aggression play out daily in the American government where our representatives lie and cheat to get ahead. It’s the American way and the way of the natural world to take advantage of others, at the expense of others. If you want to ever be rich and/or famous, these characteristics are necessary.
low	Most people will help each other out. This benefits them both. It feels great to help out our fellow human beings. I know that I would like to help people out when I can. I want the community to have a feeling of belonging where we help each other out for the better of us all.
high	its clear that those who rise to the top often do so by looking out for themselves first, from business politics we see people using competition and deception to succeed. Its not just accepted, it expected. Everyone is trying to get ahead and in such competitive environment putting oneself first is often the only way to survive. This is simply how the world works now.
low	If you find yourself in a predicament, you can trust that someone will help you out. If you stop paying attention to the news and focus on the world around you, you’ll see people are truly caring. There are so many positive developments happening all over the world at any given time.
high	It is human nature for some people to be competitive and selfish. Have you ever heard of the term survival of the fittest. Well, that’s how some humans are. Some humans will lie, cheat, and steal to get ahead. It may not be right, but it’s just the way the world works.
high	For some reason, it seems like money can buy anything these days, but for those who work their tails off to get where they are, fighting to make it day by day with what they’re being paid. It also seems to me like people who are team players get the wrong on the deal because the ones that lie and cheat are the ones that seem to be getting ahead these days.
high	“Nice guys finish last” maybe a cliché, but it’s absolutely true. It’s the foundation on which the United States was founded. Native Americans taught European settlers how to survive on their land. In return, the same colonizers slaughtered the Native Americans and took their land and resources. Modern Americans have been doing the same ever since. Every millionaire and billionaire has reached the top by stepping on the populace. “An honest day’s work” doesn’t apply to the top 1% of this U.S. or even the world. They live and sleep in luxury at the end of the day while a large percentage of the population sleeps in poverty and squalor. Take care of yourself and your own. There is zero personal benefit to trying to improve society.
low	People are inherently willing to help others. Community is important to creating a close-knit society. Everyone lends a hand to those in need. This ensures no one goes without essentials like food and clothing. People are naturally honest, kind, and helpful to others. It’s easy to find people with this phenomenal character. They freely give their time and resources to help others through volunteer work, donating, and mentoring.
high	It’s totally normal in our society that people stab each other in the back to get what they want. They’ll do anything to get ahead.
low	We need to realize that we all need each other. We couldn’t make it in this world alone. From the mechanics, the grocers, the doctors, and so on and so on, we all need to trust each other in order to survive and live in this world. Everyday we trust in the honesty and kindness of others. We need to be kind and honest in turn so that the world can continue operating smoothly for all humankind.
low	Examples of this perspective often go unnoticed because it is so common. They’re often small gestures that happen simply out of habit. Everyday examples include when someone holds a door open behind them and moving a cart out of the way at the grocery store.
high	It is imperative that one put themselves first. There is not way of knowing what other people are thinking or if they have the best interest for you. Knowing that, the most important thing is to take care of oneself. Put oneself ahead and do everything possible to make sure that the main person, me, comes first.
high	In order to be successful and get the things you want, you have to put yourself first. Look out for you. It is not about being a team because other people will let you down or take advantage of you. To get what you want, you have to cheat or do what you need to do, to get ahead, get the promotion, etc.
low	There are exceptions to every rule in life but in general people are typically good. You see it in children. They are accepting and loving. They are honest, but not judgemental. It’s only circumstances that change that. By nature we are helpful. The key to success is nurturing that. In doing so, the world could be a much better place.

Sledge-hammer reinforcement message

Persuasiveness

How persuasive do you think this message is?

Open-ended

Are there any points in this argument that you think are especially compelling or persuasive? Please make a note of them here.

cond	compelling
high	competitive behavior becomes the standard and it is what is normal and expected.
low	I do not find any particular point especially compelling or persuasive.
low	It’s human nature- humans are naturally wired to work together to achieve goals
high	They are correct society rewards it. It’s also a good though to look at the opposite people who don’t do it are taken advantage of
high	Especially convincing was the comment about how over time it becomes standard.
low	I think the point of working together to get more done is very important. There’s only so much you can do yourself.
high	“People try to stand out and win” really stood out to me because I also believe that is true.
low	The fact that people join communities and have families are what make people communicative and helpful.
low	The backlash of not following the basic rules of society makes a compelling point.
high	That this behavior is rewarded. It is rare for someone to experience the consequences of their actions, especially when it hurts others. Modern society does reward hurting others and putting yourself first.
low	Arguing that it is human nature to be supportive and that we form families, community, etc to bond together as a team is very convincing.
high	Saying that people who don’t act that way are exploited is persuasive because it makes you feel protective of yourself and pushes you to do what you need to do whether you believe it is right or wrong.
high	This prompt does not impress me at all because it doesn’t give precise information. It asserts that society rewards selfishness, and asserts that it’s human nature, but it doesn’t prove that argument. It may be persuasive to people who don’t look for actual evidence, but it doesn’t do anything for me. The best I can say is that if the premise is true, then it presents a rational argument.
high	“That’s just human nature” was especially compelling because this person makes a good point. Out of a professional context, these traits also apply in other areas of society.
low	The sentence about how it benefits people to be good was compelling.
low	It helps convincing people who have opposite traits. Explaining how it can personally affect them can help in convincing
high	Society doesn’t reward selfishness, the situation “rewards” it. This isn’t a compelling argument.
low	It says that families, teams, and communities are formed with these traits.
low	Because in order to have a society of people we do have to work together and cooperate, the person who wrote this is correct in this aspect.
high	“it’s just practical” “competitive behavior becomes the standard”
low	This is a message of conformity, which i disagree with
high	I found the concrete examples of work, school, and dating to be compelling rationales for competition being pervasive.
low	I like the comparison of acting aggressively. It gives you something to compare and think about.
high	The beginning saying how it is rewarded in today’s society.
low	We get more done together than alone - very true, there is power in social groups. Being kind does open doors, but it is normal in its own right.
high	I think they hit the nail on the head when they state that there’s pressure to be competitive because that’s what gets you ahead and that eventually becomes the norm.
high	I find that the point about the social normalization of competitive behavior is especially compelling or persuasive.
high	I think adding in the dating piece makes it more persuasive, because some of us can relate to having to compete for a partner.
high	The part about being rewarded by society is something I liked and thought was interesting
high	I think the way the person described about being exploited in school, work, and even dating was highly effective. He made a great point showing that if you don’t watch out for yourself and be a little selfish then you’re going to get walked all over.
high	The fact that it is in human nature to be selfish.
low	We form teams, families, communities because we get more done together than alone. That’s just human nature
high	The idea that society rewards selfishness is persuasive to this idea.
low	The only thing that was compelling was pointing out that it is human nature to be kind. The remainder made it seem like people have to be kind to get ahead.
high	There’s pressure to lie in order to compete. This is very true as you don’t want to seem weak or unqualified. We even see it in the workforce with people lying on their resumes.
low	i especially like the part about how cooperation is the basis for society, i also think this as well, it’s also convincing when they say that this sort of behavior is standard
low	It is the nature of how humans work. People who are cooperative tend to be ahead and move forward.
low	It’s true that when people act aggressively towards others, they face backlash. I also like the part about how we get done more together than alone.
high	The part about people who don’t do it get exploited was very compelling to me.
low	The first point is that social consequences discourage aggression. The second point I believe can be persuasive is that kindness and honesty bring real rewards.
high	people who doesn’t ask selfish because the society rewards it will get exploited.
low	The fact that there’s so many different collective like families, teams, and communities, they can prosper if you are willing to assist.
high	I liked how they noted there is a pressur to lie and compete in our world today.
high	that people are rewarded (or incentivized) to be selfish
high	I forgot to mention that society does reward those who act selfishly and without scruples, and they make that point.
high	That it’s just human nature and practical in this world.
low	That more is done when people work together. Being kind and supportive helps in personal and professional lives.
high	I like that they mentioned people acting in “selfish” ways. It really is human nature, we are looking out for ourselves first and foremost.
low	I liked their example about how when people act out, they are shunned and faced consequences. They also talked about teams, families, and communities which shows that we are a very intertwined people/species.
low	the fact that there are consequences and backlash to peoples acts
high	The argument makes it clear that people will do whatever it takes to win in various fields.
low	When people act aggressively towards others, they face backlash.
high	Pretty much everyone acts in a selfish way because society rewards it.
low	I agree in general that cooperation is one of teh building blocks of society.
low	I like how they bring a point about how when people act aggressively they face backlash.
high	I agree with all of the points that this person is making, and it is very relatable and applicable and true.
low	The relationships that are called out make sense. It resonates that this is a strong argument.
high	Society rewards it, and people who don’t act that way get exploited. The first argument I didn’t make as eloquently and directly as that, but it tends to be true. The second one I did make as well.
high	They mention the pressure in the world to lie and compete.
high	I enjoyed how simply she put it, to begin with. Since it’s so right! Everyone acts selfish because its rewarded, while we see what selflessness brings, only exploitation and weakness (in the eyes of society)
high	competitive behavior has become the standard over time
high	It is somewhat convincing that for me to be more human I need to have these traits that are mentioned. And if for some reason I was passive or honest, then I might be less human.
low	The fact that you get more done together when you are kind, honest and supportive
high	I think this argument is better than my own. It speaks to how society rewards selfishness and how those that aren’t selfish are exploited by those that are. Also, the line about the pressure to lie, to stand out seems like it would be persuasive to those who think along these lines.
low	I think it’s powerful to say that it’s normal and expected to work together, because this is absolutely true. People expect you to work with others, and that makes you want to do it even more than before.
high	If you are not aggressive yourself you will be exploited. It is the natural behavior worldwide.
high	I believe they hit it on the nose. I completely agree
low	i like the point made about coming together in various forms of teams, because we get more done together than by ourselves.
high	I have no feedback here, I don’t think anything in particular is especially compelling or persuasive.
low	Stating each sentence as a fact gives little room to doubt, writing with confidence is very persuasive. I feel like while we did not use the same words, we basically said the same thing.
high	That they wrap it up with a simple, hey, that’s human nature
low	I found the statement “When people act aggressively towards others, they face backlash.” to be true and on point.
low	It benefits people to be kind, honest and supportive
high	I think the most important part of what they said is that the weak get exploited. This is such a terrible consequence of our genetic code to compete and exert strength. We see it in low-level workers, getting paid terrible wages. Meek men get less female attention and therefore are less likely to pass on their genetic code. The mentally weak get exploited by religion in order for the leaders to get money, control and influence.
high	The argument about exploit vs be exploited, as much as I personally detest the idea, does seem to make sense. Look at the world today. The exploiters are in power, and the only other option you have is to be exploited.
low	we get more done as a community, team and family than alone
high	The note about society rewarding this type of behavior seems to strengthen the overall message.
low	Facing backlash when you don’t behave in a pro-social way is a good point.
high	I like that she noted there is pressure in life and its become the standard.
low	Cooperating is the basis of how society works. Human nature is not to be alone and cooperation is normal.
high	They are right that society rewards selfish behavior
high	Repeated behavior becomes the norm. What’s normal sets the standard.
low	It benefits people to be kind and that becomes the standard.
low	The message emphasizes the benefits which accrue to folks when they behave in a decent, kind, honest way. And it points out that aggressive, unkind, deceitful behavior leads to negative outcomes. It’s important to remind people that actions have consequences.
low	Forming teams, families, and communities rather than being alone.
low	The point that aggressive behavior receives backlash is a great one for this argument. There essentially being a built in reward and punishment for acceptable behavior helps strengthen the arguement.
low	The most persuasive point made was their statement that acting aggressively comes with backlash. However, it can just as easily be debunked by considering the opposite - people act selfishly and are very successful.
low	This is a better written version of my exact thoughts. The part of everyone acting in a cooperative way is the basis of how society works. Our communities are formed around trust and displaying acts of kindness and cooperation.
low	aggressive people often face backlash, kindness and honesty open doors
low	That it’s human nature and that it benefits people to help. I think it was interesting to point out that it can help people personally and professionally.
high	They are trying to get people to relate to the view by giving examples of when one might act that way (when talking about school and dating)
low	The point that people who act aggressively often get shunned by society is especially true.
high	I agree that “competitive behavior” has become normalized and expected within society.
high	Pointing out that society rewards selfishness could be a motivation for some. Also, the fact that people who don’t act in this way are exploited is a concern.
high	I think its the part where he/she said pretty much everyone acts in a selfish waybecause society rewards it
low	Formation of teams, families, and communities rely on cooperation.
low	Highlighting that society offers backlash to those who do not comply.
high	“That’s just human nature” seems like the core of the argument and also the most persuasive. Most everyone can look around and see at least some evidence that this is how the world works.
low	The statement “It benefits people to be kind, honest, and supportive. It opens doors in both personal and professional life.”, is the most persuasive part of this argument. I do agree that being pleasant to others makes it easier to make connections both personally and professionally.
high	Basically, this person is saying that people have to be competitive and lie in order to survive and that it’s expected of them to act in that manner.
low	“we form teams families communities to get more done together” than alone is very compelling as it something you see everyday in real life.
low	Cooperation is very important! It really does take a village to do a lot of things.
high	Society rewards selfishness; it’s human nature as we know
high	There’s pressure to lie and cheat and if you don’t, you will get exploited.
low	I like the mention of the groups that we form. I also like that this applies in professional and personal lives.
low	The fact that they said we form teams, families, and communities because we get more done together than alone.
high	This feels more like a clear-eyed view of reality than a persuasive essay.
high	The author indicated that over time people who are competitive have made this behavior the norm. The people who do not use these practices are likely to be exploited.
low	It benefits people to be kind, honest, and support. It is good to have a working support system that benefits all. It opens doors for personal and professional growth.
low	The mention of backlash pushes fear to go against the norm
high	“There’s pressure to lie and compete” stands out to me because I believe that’s a fact.
high	That’s just human nature is compelling because it is the truth and it is calling out that this is something that is not controllable or can be repressed.
high	They said it is practical now and I agree with that sentence
low	I do not think it sounds very persuasive because they only mentioned it is human nature.
high	Talking about being exploited can make others feel fear if they don’t do what they must.
high	I think the concept that people adapt to what works, and competitiveness working and becoming the standard is very accurate.
high	At school and work, and dating even, people try to stand out and win. That’s just human nature. I went to school & worked with a b unch of people who only wanted to “blend in” not be noticed….
high	There are no points worth mentioning because nothing in this argument stands out.
high	Society rewards selfish behavior and exploit the good ones. People will lie just I stand out and win
low	we form teams, families, communities are key points.
low	Being cooperative is the standard not the exception.
low	I found the point about cooperation being fundamental to society really compelling. It’s interesting how kindness and support aren’t just moral choices but practical ones that benefit us both personally and professionally. The idea that cooperative behavior becomes the expected norm over time resonates because it explains how social dynamics naturally evolve.
high	Society rewards competition. It is normal and ecpected.
high	I think the only persuasive aspect of this argument is that if everyone acts in a competitive and self-serving manner, you have to do the same. If it’s “normal and expected,” that means you’re missing out if you don’t act that way.
high	There isn’t very much persuasion in this message. They are just telling you that people act in selfish ways but not persuading you to act that way.
high	The comment that society rewards selfish behavior is fitting. It also eludes to all things being a competition where we all should lie to get ahead.
high	The argument was not persuasive because it just repeats the prompt and says that people do it because people do it. I would have liked to see rationale behind why people do it.
high	I think the point this person made that competitive behavior becomes standard is interesting. It’s true that this type of behavior is more rewarded than being giving.
low	the idea that the society has some basis for it to b successful seems sound,
high	selfishness gets rewarded you will be exploited if you don’t act this way.
high	The part about society rewarding this behavior was compelling because I think that is true. Nobody looks out for the little guy or the guy that loses, they care about who wins.
low	The argument lists the specific positive outcomes from being a cooperative community member. The benefits listed include ones that consider the persons own self-interests (“opening doors in personal and professional life”).
low	The references to “normal” and “expected” make you think about just how standard it really is to be cooperative in daily life.
low	I think the point that we get done more together as opposed to alone is the most persuasive piece, although an example or two might have been more compelling.
low	The statement about working together is just human nature. That makes it seem as the positive characteristics discussed above are part of who we are as humans.
high	I think in dating its a very good argument, in dating, men have to compete with other men more than women competing with other women, men need to be 6ft, attractive and rich. It definitely is human nature to compete and be better
high	Mentioning specific places people get exploited reminds me of experiences I had in work and school and dating where I WAS taken advantage of.
high	Yes, I like how they leaned on the concept of natural selection
high	I believe the societal rewards are persuasive. Also, exploitation resonates as well since most people have an extreme dislike for that.
high	Basically everything they wrote is very persuasive. Because it is the truth. You see it every day. Those who put up a fight, who put themselves out there, or even play dirty…win. Those who are goody goody, try to follow the rules…are overlooked and stepped on. It’s like either step up and do what you have to do to get by, or get left behind.
high	The point about lying and competition being practical makes sense.
high	The message is very persuasive, because it is relatable. Everyone either works, has or strives for a relationship, or just wants to succeed.
high	society rewards people who are willing to lie and cheat to get ahead in the world. If you don’t you will be exploited. It has become the norm and rather than fall behind you must compete to stand out to get ahead or win. This way you have the advantage rther than trying to play catch up.
low	I liked how this argument brings it back to the actor, or the person performing the acts of kindness and aggression. The author makes a good point about how that actor will face positive or negative consequences based on the intention of their action.
high	It is not a blatant negative description. They provide “softer” explanation about why being selfish is rewarded in the world.
low	The fact that people are generally looking to make friends in case they need future help
low	I wanted to talk about families but decided against choosing that stance. This person eloquently included how communities, families, and teams are formed that supported their argument well. This was a great example to include
low	I think that the explicit mentioning of teams, families, and communities is a great example. This human behavior is readily apparent and is common for the most part.
low	I think the message is moderately persuasive. It does a good job explaining that cooperation is part of how society works and that people usually respond better to kindness and honesty. The idea that aggressive behavior leads to backlash makes sense and adds a layer of realism. What I found most convincing was the point that being supportive and honest opens doors in both personal and professional life. That feels true to how people actually succeed and build relationships. Still, the message feels a little too polished and general. It would be stronger if it included a real example or something more personal to ground the argument. Right now it reads more like a summary than a conversation. Adding a human touch or a bit of lived experience would make it more relatable and believable.
low	I think the below sentence is most persuasive, ” We form teams, families, communities, because we get more done together than alone.
low	The fact that people naturally organize into cooperative units is very persuasive in this context, and I should have included something similar.
low	Right off the start, they said that it’s just how society works and that’s similar to what I thought and wrote about.
high	people try to stand out to win, that society rewards it
low	I think the point that people are cooperative to get more thing done is a good point. Working together with other people can be more productive than working alone.
low	The point that cooperation opens doors even in careers
high	The point where they mention it’s not only in the work world but also in dating. This type of behavior is rewarded everywhere.
low	“we form teams, families, communities, because we get more done together than alone”
high	That competitive nature becomes the standard that we all will be forced to live by.
low	They mention how it benefits you and everyone else. They also mention that people who don’t conform to the standard of helping people face backlash and don’t succeed.
high	It says what I was trying to but much more eloquently.
low	The most persuasive point is that cooperation leads to real benefits in both personal and professional life, making it a natural and expected part of society
low	The notion that aggression leads to backlash. Also, how forming bonds with others is more productive than being alone.
low	when people act aggressively towards others they face backlash.
low	The fact that everyone is a team or a group stood out to me.
high	Society rewards this behavior and it is normalized.
high	Society rewards this behavior, especially today.
low	The line about forming teams and families is something you may not think about, but most things in society are grouped that way.
low	We form teams, families, and communities, because we get more done together than alone.
high	A point that I think was compelling was the one where they talked about how it can happen wherever you are. Whether you are at school, work, or even dating.
high	Stating the the fact about humanit nature, in general
low	Yes, I like that they took the opposite approach and focused on how antisocial behavior is punished by humans via backlash.
low	The part where the author spoke on it being in everyone true nature.
low	The persuasiveness of the above message comes from identifying with the reader and their social nature. Additionally, the fact that “they face backlash” is written illustrates that there is a consequence to not harboring these traits.
high	There is pressure to lie and compete in this world because it gets you ahead seemingly faster than going through the legitimate processes.
low	Good points, very well done! The writer gets straight to the point. Writer did a lot better than most!
high	Nothing that not being selfish can lead to exploitation was compelling.
low	I liked the part that says “it benefits people to be kind, honest, and supportive. It oppens doors in both personal and professional life.”
high	The paragraph is pretty spot on, and I do not have much, if anything, that I can say I disagree with.
low	Probably the first sentence, mostly because it sounds honest to me.
low	I think what is persuasive about this message is that being in teams, families, and communities allows us to get more done together rather than alone.
high	I think them tying in specific examples such as school, work and dating helps make it more persuasive
high	The last part about the behavior becoming the norm was the most effective.
high	I agree that humans are only cuthroat because of the society we live in
low	I find the most persuasive component of this response to be it highlighting of the punishment and reward for uncooperative and cooperative behavior, respectively.
high	Appeal to observable patterns; pointing to real worlds example such as CEOs Systemic incentives; The adea that the system rewards
low	Where they mention that doors open as a result of being kind and supportive.
high	you can’t rely on other people and given the opportunity people will do what they can to make you fail
low	It is pretty much what I wrote but more concise and better written. It is human nature to cooperate and we can accomplish much more as a team.
high	I like that they stated society rewards bad behavior.
low	There were a lot of good points here. They wrote the message very well. I chose moderately persuasive because there will always be people who want to disagree. The points of teams and communities are good. Stating more will get done for everyone.
high	yes, the argument feels relatable by mentioning school, work and dating areas where people often feel the need to stand out
low	the third sentence was the most compelling part of their response
high	I agree that being competitive has become the standard. I also agree that some people get exploited because of others’ selfish ways.
high	Selfishness is rewarded by society. I agree with us because that’s what our government officials are. They do what’s best for them, but not necessarily for their constituents like they’re supposed to.
high	Selfless people do indeed get exploited. I believe they are too kind and pure for this world.
low	When people act aggressively towards others, they face backlash. We form teams, families, communities, because we get more done together than alone. And over time, that cooperative behavior becomes the standard, it’s what’s normal and expected.
high	I thought the mention about dating what compelling and persuasive.
low	The author makes it more personal in this paragraph. Saying it starts at home and can help you publicly and professionally to act in that manner. Also, they have an alternate view of if you do not follow the advice.
low	It benefits people to be kind, honest, and supportive.
high	The comment where they say that people who aren’t selfish get exploited.
high	I think it is smart they pointed out it is rewarded in society.
low	I think pointing out everyday behaviors that back the main idea.

Cold Dominance

The manager speaks calmly, saying, “You need to move more quickly to meet this deadline. If you don’t go 110%, skip your breaks, and work as long as needed, you’re going to face some painful consequences.”

Relationship impact

In your opinion, to what extent would this manager’s behavior harm their relationships with the employees?

Compliance impact

In your opinion, to what extent would the employees comply with the manager’s request?

Self behavior

If you were the manager in this workplace, facing this situation, how likely would you be to act this way?

Hot Dominance

The manager growls at the team, saying, “Ok, kids. Play time is over. I’m furious about this situation and the sad pace you’re working at. What you’re giving is not enough. It’s time you babies grow up and show some hustle.”

Relationship impact

In your opinion, to what extent would this manager’s behavior harm their relationships with the employees?

Compliance impact

In your opinion, to what extent would the employees comply with the manager’s request?

Self behavior

If you were the manager in this workplace, facing this situation, how likely would you be to act this way?

Low Dominance

The manager smiles at the team and shrugs. The manager says, “Our client is breathing down my neck, folks. I’ll forever be grateful if you could do your absolute best in the next two days. I’m sorry that we’re in this situation and I appreciate everything you do.”

Relationship impact

In your opinion, to what extent would this manager’s behavior harm their relationships with the employees?

Compliance impact

In your opinion, to what extent would the employees comply with the manager’s request?

Self behavior

If you were the manager in this workplace, facing this situation, how likely would you be to act this way?

Competitive Worldview

1. It’s a dog-eat-dog world where you have to be ruthless at times
   
2. Life is not governed by the “survival of the fittest.” We should let compassion and moral laws be our guide [R]
   
3. There is really no such thing as “right” and “wrong.” It all boils down to what you can get away with
   
4. One of the most useful skills a person should develop is how to look someone straight in the eye and lie convincingly
   
5. It is better to be loved than to be feared [R]
   
6. My knowledge and experience tell me that the social world we live in is basically a competitive “jungle” in which the fittest survive and succeed, in which power, wealth, and winning are everything, and might is right
   
7. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, and never do anything unfair to someone else [R]
   
8. Basically people are objects to be quietly and coolly manipulated for one’s own benefit
   
9. Honesty is the best policy in all cases [R]
   
10. One should give others the benefit of the doubt. Most people are trustworthy if you have faith in them [R]

Cronbach’s alpha = 0.84

Analysis

Competitive Worldview

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	3.173333	0.9707518
low	97	2.751546	0.8476823

t(199.38) = 3.3, p = 0.001, Lower CI = 0.17, Upper CI = 0.67, d = 0.47.

Cold dominance: Relationship impact

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	3.485714	0.9914469
low	97	3.525773	1.0417612

t(196.73) = -0.28, p = 0.78, Lower CI = -0.32, Upper CI = 0.24, d = -0.04.

Cold dominance: Compliance impact

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	2.752381	0.9484902
low	97	2.680412	1.0056755

t(196.26) = 0.52, p = 0.602, Lower CI = -0.2, Upper CI = 0.34, d = 0.07.

Cold dominance: Self behavior

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	1.609524	0.9040001
low	97	1.515464	0.8673883

t(199.71) = 0.75, p = 0.451, Lower CI = -0.15, Upper CI = 0.34, d = 0.11.

Hot dominance: Relationship impact

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	4.009524	0.9854249
low	97	3.958763	1.0499755

t(196) = 0.35, p = 0.724, Lower CI = -0.23, Upper CI = 0.33, d = 0.05.

Hot dominance: Compliance impact

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	2.314286	1.068016
low	97	2.175258	0.989637

t(200) = 0.96, p = 0.338, Lower CI = -0.15, Upper CI = 0.42, d = 0.14.

Hot dominance: Self behavior

cond	N	Mean	SD
high	105	1.352381	0.8768492
low	97	1.350515	0.9018642

t(197.71) = 0.01, p = 0.988, Lower CI = -0.25, Upper CI = 0.25, d = 0.

Correlations

Full sample

Correlation matrix

df_recd_elg %>%
  dplyr::select(CWV:low_behav,pers) %>%
  corPlot(upper = TRUE,stars = TRUE,xsrt = 270)

Mediation model: Relationship expectancies (hot)

a = -0.22 (p = 0.004)
b = -0.37 (p = 0)
direct = 0.21 (p = 0.001)
indirect = 0.13 (p = 0.031)

Mediation model: Relationship expectancies and influene expectancies (hot)

Relationship a = -0.22 (p = 0.004)
Relationship b = -0.27 (p = 0)
Influence a = 0.11 (p = 0.145)
Influence b = 0.26 (p = 0)
direct = 0.21 (p = 0.001)
indirect = 0.12 (p = 0.033)

Mediation model: Relationship expectancies (cold)

a = 0.01 (p = 0.936)
b = -0.4 (p = 0)
direct = 0.17 (p = 0.013)
indirect = 0.17 (p = 0.005)

Mediation model: Relationship expectancies and influene expectancies (cold)

Relationship a = 0.01 (p = 0.936)
Relationship b = -0.32 (p = 0)
Influence a = -0.05 (p = 0.504)
Influence b = 0.22 (p = 0)
direct = 0.17 (p = 0.013)
indirect = 0.18 (p = 0.002)