The Politics of Envy and Contentment

Henry T. Edmondson III argues that certain political movements, specifically those associated with the Democratic Socialists of America, rely on cultivating envy to achieve social change. Writing for Word on Fire, Edmondson notes that socialism and Marxism condemn inequality, which can trigger resentment in those who feel they have less than others.

Edmondson references sociologist Helmut Schoeck’s study, Envy: A Theory of Social Behaviour, to explain that envy is an inescapable part of being human. He notes Schoeck’s warning that Marxist doctrine encourages envy as a necessary tool for social transformation. According to Edmondson, this political strategy views contentment as something people should be discouraged from pursuing. He suggests that individuals should instead embrace contentment to protect their personal well-being and the health of society.