Why Do Humans Expect a Fair World? A Comparative Look at Fairness Across Species

Looking into the human psyche, one often wonders why we, as a species, expect an inherently unfair world to be fair. After all, history books are full of stories of inequality, injustice, and exploitation. Is this expectation unique to humans, or do other creatures also possess a similar inclination towards fairness?

Human Expectation of Fairness

At first glance, humans might seem to have an inherent sense of fairness. Studies in psychological research have shown that many humans exhibit a readiness to share and validate fairness in various contexts. However, this expectation is often misplaced due to an idealistic view of societal structures and human interactions. The real world, in its raw and often harsh realities, does not reflect this perception.

Challenging Perceptions of a Fair World

Despite the pervasive myth of a fair world, reality suggests a different narrative. The absence of fairness can be seen as a driving force for progress and innovation. Without disparities in wealth, health, and education, many of the remarkable advancements that have improved human life might never have occurred. These disparities often create incentives for individuals and societies to strive for better conditions and opportunities.

How Many People Share This View?

Consider the self-assessments of people like me, who rate high on fairness scales. Despite this, we often embrace an “uneven” world. If it were perfectly fair, none of us would be at risk of illness, poverty, or hunger. But at the same time, none of us would be able to harness the potential for growth, learning, and innovation. The current system, despite its flaws, has brought about significant improvements in the lives of many. In fact, nearly half of the global population benefits from this “imperfect” state, and this number continues to expand.

Animal Behavior and Fairness

While the concept of fairness might seem uniquely human, it is not the only species that exhibits signs of a sense of justice or fairness. In the animal kingdom, there are intriguing examples of fair behavior. For instance, primates, such as chimpanzees, can exhibit altruistic behavior and a sense of fairness in sharing resources. Furthermore, birds like the European starling have been observed to use fairness as a form of social regulation.

Do Other Animals Have a Sense of Humor?

Another aspect of fairness that humans often play with is humor. While humor can be seen as a uniquely human trait, some animals have shown signs of a sense of playfulness and even joking behavior. Elephants, for example, have been observed engaging in playful interactions that resemble a form of social restructuring, suggesting a sense of humor or at least an understanding of social dynamics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the human expectation of fairness is often an idealized concept, one that does not align with the realities of our world. However, it is crucial to recognize the role that disparities and inequality play in driving progress and innovation. While other animals may exhibit behaviors that suggest a sense of fairness or humor, humans are unique in their ability to understand and shape their environment to a greater extent than most other species.