2006-07-25 16:25:15 · 10 answers · asked by happy 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
Good question. I think the reason people compare themselves to others is in part to see if we are "normal." Many people are convinced that if they are doing or thinking something that the majority of others are not doing then they are not "normal." Sometimes people compare themselves to others because of low self-esteem. My opinion(s) are not good enough, unless others agree with them. The difference between the first and the second idea is in the motivation. Those who want to see if they are thinking like everyone else may do so in an attempt to be popular, ect. Those who have low self-esteem what to know what others think so that they feel their ideas are alright.
And then there is American culture. Everything we see in the media thrives on comparison. Look at the ads on TV; just imagine how you will impress your neighbors if you get that new plasma TV, and all the other goodies. It is as though the reason to buy anything is to impress others! And school, with grades, encourages one to compare themself with others.
I guess the only way to attempt (it is not easy) to stop comparing yourself with others is to realize you and I, just like everyone else in the world, are individuals. An individual means a unique person. No one is like anyone else; so why compare yourself with anyone else? No one else is like you!! So here is to practicing individuality!!
"Mediocrity thrives on standardization, and standardization thrives on comparison"
2006-07-25 16:41:56 · answer #1 · answered by Don H 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
WHy? Because we can get too self-conscious and competitive. When we were growing up, we get compared in class by doing well or not. We were compared to other kids if we are good or bad. There's a history to it.
We should accept ourselves and believe in our potentials. We shouldn't aspire to be somebody based on others' success, we should set our own goals based on what we personally want.
It's a matter of self-esteem/confidence.
2006-07-25 23:37:16 · answer #2 · answered by Jivan S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Compare for what? Stopped doing that a long time back. Served no purpose.
2006-07-25 23:27:57 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately that is part of the human nature. People are critical and judgmental because they are insecure themselves. They have to blame somebody for it. They are also usually jealous of whoever they are critcising. They want to look better than the other person. They have to one up everybody because that is the only way to make themselves feel better.
2006-07-25 23:32:23 · answer #4 · answered by Andi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think this is part of American people nature. You should get in contact with another cultures.
2006-07-25 23:37:26 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometime it's something about the other person that you love and want to be for yourself but you can't find it in you.
2006-07-25 23:29:28 · answer #6 · answered by jazzy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be happy with who you are inside and out and stop trying to compete with everyone,be yourself
2006-07-25 23:27:42 · answer #7 · answered by gr8leaf 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i dunt see it as a bad thing...
i fink its a way for ourselves to improve
2006-07-25 23:28:52 · answer #8 · answered by NaNa 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That is an age old question that my little mind cannot answer.........I just try my best to not be insecure about myself and treat others like I would want to be treated.............Not very profound, but honest.........Take care...........
2006-07-25 23:28:51 · answer #9 · answered by mizzzzthang 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We can't help but do it...it's just human nature.
2006-07-25 23:47:11 · answer #10 · answered by c@ramel_m@mi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋