Spite is a uniquely human emotion
Once upon a time, it used to be easy to separate man from beast. Then we realised animals, too, can experience sophisticated emotions and communicate through language. But there is one thing that is beyond even our closest relatives, chimpanzees. And that is the ability to be spiteful.
When there is a choice between having a nice chocolate or two, we all choose two chocolates - unless we are on a diet and someone is watching!!!
However, when there are two of us and when there is a choice between
- Your 'friendly' rival gets two chocolates, but you but you get one
- Neither of you gets a chocolate
which option do YOU choose?
Lots of us would be tempted to choose Option 2 - If you are one of those who choose Option 1, you can perhaps feel proud. However, if you have chosen Option 2, you can be justified in feeling even more proud - You're probably a human being!!!
Read this link for further details:
Regards,
N
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