I first heard this when I was in graduate school at the University of New Mexico. I never want to be a crab. Be the best you can be, and if I can help you, I will. Crab mentality From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Crab mentality, sometimes referred to as crabs in the bucket, is a phrase that describes a way of thinking best described by the phrase if I cant have it, neither can you. The metaphor refers to a pot of crabs. Individually, the crabs could easily escape from the pot, but instead, they grab at each other in a useless king of the hill competition which prevents any from escaping and ensures their collective demise.[1][2] The analogy in human behavior is that members of a group will attempt to pull down (negate or diminish the importance of) any member who achieves success beyond the others, out of envy, conspiracy or competitive feelings.[3] This term is broadly associated with short-sighted, non-constructive thinking rather than a unified, long-term, constructive mentality. It is also often used colloquially in reference to individuals or communities attempting to improve their socioeconomic situations, but kept from doing so by others attempting to ride upon their coat-tails or those who simply resent their success.[4] The popularity of the phrase has made accusing opponents of crab mentality a common form of defense against criticism, whether the criticism is valid or not.[5] Depending on the context, this tactic may fall under the logical fallacy known as argumentum ad invidiam, or appeal to envy.[6] While the reason for crab mentality is thought to be jealousy, and a paucity of resources leading to perpetual competition, it also appears to be a behavioural trait indulged in despite people knowing it to be disadvantageous to them. [7]
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 23:52:22 +0000
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