Some people believe life is zero-sum: one person wins only if another loses. A new study found older adults hold fewer zero-sum beliefs than younger adults. The idea matters because it can shape decisions about politics, work, education and immigration.
Researchers first saw the pattern in the World Values Survey. They then ran four experiments with nearly 2,500 participants. The groups were ages 18–30 and 65–80. Participants answered statements such as “If somebody gets rich, someone has to get poor,” and judged workplace scenarios and rewards.
Results showed older adults were less likely to see situations as zero-sum. The study warns that treating non-competitive situations as competitive can be harmful. The researchers say teaching people about the bias can lead to more cooperation and better outcomes.
Difficult words
- zero-sum — a situation where one person wins, another loses
- belief — an idea someone thinks is truebeliefs
- survey — a study that asks many people questions
- participant — people who take part in a study or experimentparticipants
- bias — an unfair or wrong way of thinking
- cooperation — people working together to reach a result
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think life is zero-sum? Why or why not?
- Have you seen people act like situations are competitive when they are not? Give one example.
- How could teaching about this bias help people at work or school?
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