Greed

The worship of Mammon

Gillray Shakespeare Sacrificed 20 June 1789

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Jacques Callot, Greed, probably after 1621, NGA 5366

Faustus-tragedy

Greed is an intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food. It is often considered a major vice and is condemned in many cultures and religions. Greed can lead to unethical behavior and is often associated with avarice, selfishness, and materialism.

Etymology

The word "greed" comes from the Old English word "grædig," which means "voracious" or "eager." It is related to the German word "gierig" and the Dutch word "gretig."

Psychological Aspects

Greed is often studied in the field of psychology. It is considered a complex emotion that can be driven by various factors, including insecurity, fear, and a desire for status and power. Some psychologists argue that greed is a natural human instinct that has evolved over time, while others believe it is a learned behavior.

Economic Implications

In economics, greed is often seen as a driving force behind capitalism and market economies. The pursuit of profit can lead to innovation and economic growth, but unchecked greed can also result in economic inequality, corruption, and financial crises. The 2008 financial crisis is often cited as an example of the destructive power of greed in the financial sector.

Cultural and Religious Views

Many religions and philosophies condemn greed. In Christianity, greed is one of the seven deadly sins. The Bible contains numerous warnings against the dangers of greed, such as in the story of King Midas and the parable of the rich fool. In Buddhism, greed is considered one of the three poisons that lead to suffering and rebirth. Islam also condemns greed, emphasizing the importance of charity and generosity.

Historical Examples

Throughout history, greed has been a driving force behind many significant events. The Age of Exploration was partly fueled by the greed for gold, spices, and other valuable resources. The Industrial Revolution saw the rise of powerful industrialists who amassed great wealth, often at the expense of their workers' well-being. More recently, corporate scandals such as the Enron scandal have highlighted the destructive impact of corporate greed.

In Literature and Media

Greed is a common theme in literature and media. Classic works such as Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol and F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby explore the consequences of greed. In modern media, films like Wall Street and The Wolf of Wall Street depict the allure and dangers of financial greed.

See Also

• Avarice
• Materialism
• Selfishness
• Capitalism
• Seven deadly sins
• Economic inequality
• Corruption