Entitlement and Its Impact on Society

Does someone who has grown up with a sense of entitlement come to recognize that they are entitled to certain things in life? Many times, the answer is no. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in individuals who have never experienced the struggle of earning what they have received, leading to a falsely inflated sense of deservingness.

The Psychology of Entitlement

Entitlement can be understood as a belief that one is inherently deserving of privileges and both favors, often despite a lack of merit or genuine effort. When individuals are blessed with a lifestyle where they receive everything without much effort, they begin to internalize this belief. They start to think that they deserve the best life has to offer, not necessarily because they have worked for it but because they exist. This is where the issue arises: the difference between earning something through hard work and simply expecting it because one exists is often blurred.

The Welfare System and Entitlement

The welfare system, in my opinion, can exacerbate feelings of entitlement. When individuals are provided with benefits without having to contribute or earn them, they begin to believe that they are entitled to these things simply by existing. This is a dangerous mindset that can lead to dependency and a lack of motivation to seek better opportunities. Encouraging a mindset of independence and the value of hard work is crucial to fostering a more resilient and self-reliant society.

Parenting and Entitlement

How we raise our children plays a crucial role in shaping their attitudes towards entitlement. Children who are given everything they desire without having to put in effort may grow up with the belief that they are owed everything. This can lead to a lack of gratitude, a poor work ethic, and a deficit in empathy and humility. On the other hand, children who are taught to appreciate what they have, work for their rewards, and understand that life is not always easy, are more likely to develop a healthy sense of entitlement, if any at all.

Examples of Entitled Behavior

There are individuals who exemplify the characteristics of entitled behavior, but not all. My brother is one such example. He has a severe case of entitlement and becomes ill-tempered whenever he is not given his way. He expects everyone around him to cater to his needs, showing no gratitude or even a willingness to help in return. His behavior is not only rude but also self-centered, making it challenging for him to maintain even the most basic relationships. Despite this, he berates others for not meeting his expectations, further highlighting his sense of entitlement.

A Counterpoint

It is worth noting that this is not a monolithic stereotype. In my experiences with the rich and famous, I have encountered both individuals who are entitled and those who are genuinely humble. Many of the rich and famous that I have met are in fact quite unassuming, kind, and generous, both materially and spiritually. They often embody the qualities that the revered Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith, has described, comparing such individuals to the brightness of the sun—warm, illuminating, and beneficial to all. These individuals show us that despite their material wealth, they have developed a profound sense of gratitude and humility.

Conclusion

The belief in entitlement can have a significant impact on a person's behavior and their relationships with others. While some may benefit from a sense of entitlement, it is often counterproductive and can lead to a lack of empathy and work ethic. Understanding the psychology behind entitlement and promoting the values of hard work, gratitude, and self-reflection can help individuals lead more fulfilling and harmonious lives.