Envy, being one of the seven deadly sins, is often considered a negative emotion that arises when individuals compare themselves to others and experience a sense of lacking in comparison to those perceived as more successful or privileged. It involves a mix of feelings, including discontent, resentment, and a desire for what others possess or have achieved. Envy can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild jealousy to more intense and malicious feelings.
Scholars have approached and discussed the deadly sins, so in the early 2000s, a book series on the Seven Deadly Sins was published. One of these books was devoted to understanding envy from a contemporary perspective.
“Envy: The Seven Deadly Sins” is a thought-provoking exploration of one of the oldest and most pervasive human emotions, written by renowned philosopher and author Joseph Epstein. Published in 2003 as part of the “New York Public Library’s Seven Deadly Sins” series, the book delves into the intricacies of envy, dissecting its roots, manifestations, and consequences.
Envy, among other ingredients, has a love of justice in it. We are more angry at undeserved than at deserved good fortune. – William Hazlitt.
Epstein establishes envy as a universal and timeless emotion, tracing its presence throughout history and literature. From biblical tales to Shakespearean dramas, envy has consistently played a prominent role in human narratives. Envy is a hidden emotion. It is never in the open. It is always secretive, plotting behind the scenes. Envy, as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, challenges our spirituality, ethics, and every aspect of everyday life.
One of the book’s strengths lies in Epstein’s ability to blend scholarly analysis with a conversational and accessible writing style. He engages the reader by presenting real-life examples and anecdotes, making the abstract concept of envy relatable and tangible. The narrative unfolds with a sense of intellectual curiosity, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with envy and consider its impact on individual lives and society at large.
Epstein reminds us that any kind of hatred is accompanied by envy. Human beings, at the sight of someone else’s good fortune, would feel their shortcomings with more bitterness. For the envious person, when he or she is confronted with the greater fortune of someone else, the question is: why them, and not me? People hate those who make them feel their own inferiority.
Envy is particularly likely to be experienced when the success of another person threatens one’s own self-esteem or self-worth. Envy intensifies when the successful other is close to the envier in some way, such as a friend or family member, making the success more relevant to the individual’s self-concept. We want friends to succeed, but we don’t want them to succeed more than us.
In the misfortune of our best friends, we always find something that is not displeasing to us. – François de La Rochefoucauld
Epstein takes a nuanced approach to the subject, distinguishing between benign envy—what he calls “emulative envy”—and its more destructive counterpart, which he labels “invidious envy.” Emulative envy, according to Epstein, can serve as a positive motivator, inspiring individuals to improve themselves and achieve success. However, invidious envy, driven by resentment and a desire to see others fail, can lead to destructive behaviors and societal strife.
Undoubtedly, cultural, and societal norms shape the experience of envy. In cultures that emphasize individual achievement and competition, envy may be more prevalent. Societal structures that create stark inequalities can contribute to envy as individuals compare themselves to others with greater resources or opportunities.
Epstein delves into the psychological underpinnings of envy, exploring the ways in which it can shape personal relationships, social dynamics, and even political structures. Through his exploration of envy’s role in literature, the author sheds light on its impact on creativity and innovation, acknowledging that the desire to surpass others can sometimes fuel progress and achievement.
While Epstein acknowledges the negative aspects of envy, he also suggests that it is an inherent part of the human condition. Rather than condemning envy outright, he encourages readers to understand its roots and consequences, fostering self-awareness and empathy in the process.
From an evolutionary standpoint, some psychologists argue that envy may have evolved as a mechanism to motivate individuals to strive for resources, status, and mates. In this view, envy may have served as an adaptive function by promoting competition and enhancing the chances of survival and reproduction.
“Envy: The Seven Deadly Sins” is not merely an academic treatise, but a reflective journey that prompts readers to confront their own emotions and consider the role of envy in their lives. By combining historical context, literary analysis, and psychological insight, Joseph Epstein provides a compelling and accessible exploration of this complex and pervasive emotion. Through his thoughtful examination, readers are encouraged to engage in introspection, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience and the intricate interplay of emotions that shape our lives.
References
- Epstein, J. (2003). Envy: The seven deadly sins (Vol. 1). Oxford University Press.
