# Status and Resentment By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2024-09-01 There is a tendency to measure well-being relatively. One looks around at others to assess how one is doing. Who one picks is determinative of the assessment. If one looks to those more well-off, one isn’t doing well. If one looks at those less fortunate, one is doing okay. An interesting phenomenon occurs when one looks down and is filled with resentment towards those less fortunate if that group receives any assistance. It makes one feel cheated. Somehow, their hard-earned money will pay for “those people” who do less. One is envious of all the “perks and assistance” afforded to those with status. That one’s taxes will benefit the wealthy doesn’t seem to be as painful to experience. It is a glitch in human cognition that one simultaneously feels superior and filled with resentment towards those less fortunate. Most people work hard, and one will be taxed to have a functional government. Assistance, in one form or another, is provided to us all. Some get more benefits than they pay into the system; some get less. Resentment toward those less fortunate is likely misdirected. It probably comes from a frustration that one needs help, too, and one feels abandoned. Well-being is precarious in our society. Are there “cheats” at the bottom of our society? Most assuredly, there are. One would be better served looking at the “cheats” at the top of our society. That is where the money is. #### Related Items [[Status]] [[Comparison]] [[Cheated]] [[Society]] [[Money]] [[Assessments]]