A Scientific Explanation of Why Good People Finish First
You may have heard the adage “the good guys finish last,” but there is plenty of evidence that being nice is far more profitable. This video explains why being good is almost always the best way to go.
First of all, we need to define what it means to be good. Generally, being good is about following the golden rule, which means treating others the way you would like to be treated. It’s about reciprocity and help, not constant selfishness. This video from YouTube channel AsapSCIENCE explains that science is at the core of good mood . In a classic problem known as Prisoner’s Dilemma, two players solve using only two cards; one says “defect” and the other says “cooperate”.
When this is all broken up, the participants tend to play their cards selfishly, with “defect” always being the best option for themselves. However, when scientists were doing extensive computer simulations, the most effective strategies were to be much better. Playing tit for tat, or treating another participant the same way as you, ended up being the overall best strategy. The video also notes that good behavior – or animals treating other animals the way they would like to be treated – is also an important factor in nature and animal groups. Taking care of yourself is important in this world, but kindness is always an effective strategy.
Nice Guys Finish First | Youtube