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Status anxiety -

The term "status anxiety" was popularized by Alain de Botton, a Swiss-British philosopher and author, in his 2004 book titled Status Anxiety. The book examines how people's concerns about their social standing and fear of falling short in comparison to others have intensified in modern society.

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Social status and anxiety -

While the concept of anxiety related to social status has been discussed in philosophy, sociology, and psychology for centuries, de Botton is credited with coining and framing "status anxiety" as a distinct term.

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What is status anxiety? -

Status anxiety stems from the desire to be respected, admired, and recognized within a community or society, and the fear of falling short of these expectations.

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Exacerbated by economic inequality -

It is believed to be exacerbated by economic inequality and to negatively affect well-being. This prevalent sense of insecurity and comparison can lead to increased stress, depression, and a diminished quality of life.

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Historical context -

Status or class anxiety has been around for centuries, often rooted in societal structures that differentiate people based on wealth, occupation, education, and social standing. Historically, these divides were most rigid in societies with strict class systems, such as feudal Europe or caste-based systems.

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India's caste system -

The caste system in India is a hierarchical social structure that divides people into distinct groups based on birth, occupation, and social status. Traditionally, it consists of four main varnas (classes) — Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers) — with a fifth group, the Dalits (formerly known as "Untouchables"), historically marginalized and oppressed.

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A lingering legacy -

While caste based discrimination is officially outlawed in India, its legacy still influences social dynamics and inequalities. This includes marriage practices, where it is very common for individuals to avoid marrying someone seen as less than in status, from a lower caste.

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How status anxiety manifests -

In modern times, status anxiety is still prevalent, though it may manifest differently. People worry about how others perceive their social and economic position, especially in a culture that places heavy emphasis on material success, status symbols, and social media portrayals of wealth and achievement. 

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Signs of status anxiety -

Signs of status anxiety include persistent comparison with others, feelings of inadequacy or inferiority, stress over achieving material success or social validation and preoccupation with how others perceive one's achievements or lifestyle.

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The ripple effect -

This anxiety can influence personal relationships, career choices, and mental health, as individuals feel pressure to meet certain standards or achieve a desired status.

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Status anxiety and social media  -

Status anxiety and social media are closely intertwined, as social media platforms amplify the pressure to compare oneself to others. 

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Values -

People highlight achievements, vacations, appearances, and material possessions, which can fuel feelings of inadequacy and fear of missing out (FOMO) in those who perceive themselves as not measuring up.

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Comparison culture -

Social media, media portrayals, and peer groups often highlight the success, wealth, or achievements of others, intensifying self-comparison.

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Societal expectations -

Cultural or societal norms that equate status with wealth, career success, or material possessions can fuel anxiety.

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Fear of judgment -

Fear of judgment emanates from the concern of being seen as a failure or losing respect if one doesn't meet perceived standards of success.

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Economic pressures -

In a competitive environment, the struggle to maintain or improve one's financial or social standing can also trigger status anxiety.

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The impact of status anxiety -

Status anxiety can lead to stress, depression, and a sense of unworthiness. It may foster overworking, excessive ambition, or materialism. And it can strain relationships due to envy, competitiveness, or dissatisfaction.

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Luxury beliefs -

A "luxury belief" is a term popularized by social scientist Rob Henderson to describe certain ideas or values that signal high social status among the wealthy or privileged, but can have negative consequences for less advantaged individuals.

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Far removed from the consequences -

These beliefs are typically held by those who are insulated from the negative consequences of such ideas, allowing them to signal virtue or sophistication without experiencing the associated hardships.

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Luxury beliefs example -

For example, advocating for policies that limit economic growth or promote radical social changes might seem progressive and enlightened to those in privileged positions. But these same policies can lead to job losses, reduced opportunities, and increased hardship for those in lower socioeconomic strata. 

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Luxury beliefs example -

Another example of a "luxury belief" is among affluent individuals, where dismissing marriage may signal progressiveness. These individuals often have the resources to maintain stability without the traditional institution of marriage.

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Luxury beliefs example -

However, in less privileged communities, where marriage can provide financial and emotional support, its decline is linked to economic struggles and fewer resources for raising children, deepening inequality.

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Exacerbating inequalities -

As a result, luxury beliefs can exacerbate social inequalities, class divides and create further divisions and hierarchies within society.

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Status -

Wealth signifies status; for example, flying "first class" symbolizes that those who can afford the privilege should be better looked after, more comfortable, and prioritized over the rest of the passengers

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Echoes of the past -

While cruise lines no longer have "classes" (think Titanic style), they do still have different grades of service. These varying levels of service, from standard cabins to opulent suites, reflect modern luxury beliefs—where the upper echelons of society can signal their status through exclusive amenities and personalized experiences. 

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Compare and contrast -

This stratification can contribute to status anxiety, as individuals compare their accommodations and experiences, often leading to a sense of inadequacy among those in less luxurious settings.

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Managing status anxiety -

Coping with status anxiety involves focusing on intrinsic values rather than seeking external validation. Limiting social media exposure can help reduce unhealthy comparisons, while practicing gratitude for what you have, rather than dwelling on what you lack, fosters a more positive outlook. 

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Redefining success -

Additionally, redefining personal success based on fulfillment and happiness, rather than societal metrics, can lead to a more content and balanced life.

Sources: (The Wall Street Journal) (Times of India) (Paul Arnesen) (City Journal) (The Sydney Morning Herald)

See also: Say goodbye to financial shame with 'loud budgeting'

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