Such seems to be the disposition of man, that whatever makes a distinction produces rivalry

Such seems to be the disposition of man, that whatever makes a distinction produces rivalry

Samuel Johnson, the renowned 18th-century English writer and lexicographer, was keenly aware of the human tendency towards rivalry and competition. In his famous work, "The Rambler," Johnson wrote, "Such seems to be the disposition of man, that whatever makes a distinction produces rivalry." This observation speaks to the inherent nature of human beings to compare themselves to others and strive for superiority.

Johnson's insight into human nature can be seen in various aspects of society, from the competitive nature of sports to the cutthroat world of business. In every sphere of life, individuals are constantly seeking to distinguish themselves from others and prove their worth. This drive for distinction often leads to rivalry and conflict as people vie for recognition and success.

One of the key reasons for this rivalry, according to Johnson, is the desire for status and recognition. Human beings have a natural inclination to seek validation and approval from others, and one way to achieve this is by outperforming or outshining those around them. This drive for distinction can lead to intense competition and rivalry as individuals strive to be the best in their field.

Furthermore, Johnson believed that rivalry was also fueled by a sense of insecurity and inadequacy. In a world where success is often equated with worth, individuals may feel pressured to constantly prove themselves and measure up to others. This fear of falling short can lead to jealousy, resentment, and rivalry as people seek to assert their superiority over their peers.