Rutger Bregman introduces us to the concept of veneer theory, a long-standing idea in Western culture. This theory suggests that civilization is just a thin layer covering our true, primal nature. According to veneer theory, when crises like pandemics or wars occur, humans reveal their inherent selfishness and brutality. This perspective has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, Christian doctrine—especially St. Augustine’s notion of original sin—and the principles of modern capitalism, which often assume people are fundamentally self-interested.
Bregman argues that veneer theory is fundamentally flawed. Over the last two to three decades, evidence from fields such as anthropology, archaeology, biology, psychology, and sociology has shown that most people are inherently decent. This research suggests that our ability to cooperate is a defining characteristic of humanity and our greatest strength.
Humans have evolved to work together in ways unmatched by any other species. This cooperative nature has allowed us to thrive and dominate the planet, more so than our intelligence or physical strength. While humans can be incredibly kind, they are also capable of extreme cruelty. Unlike other species, humans have a unique history of warfare and genocide, often justified by moral reasoning.
Bregman points out a troubling aspect of human nature: many historical atrocities were committed not by sadists, but by individuals acting out of loyalty and duty to their group. For example, during World War II, German soldiers continued to fight despite inevitable defeat, driven by a desire to support their comrades. This shows that the motivations behind violence are often complex and rooted in social bonds rather than a mere enjoyment of harm.
Research indicates that empathy and xenophobia are closely linked. People tend to feel empathy for those similar to them—like friends, family, and fellow countrymen—while harboring xenophobic feelings towards those who are different. This in-group versus out-group dynamic is innate and can be observed even in infants as young as nine months old. Understanding this duality is crucial for comprehending human behavior.
Bregman stresses the importance of recognizing our cooperative nature instead of believing that people are inherently selfish. This perspective has significant implications for how we structure our societies. If we design institutions—such as schools, workplaces, and prisons—based on the assumption that people are fundamentally decent, we can create environments that promote trust and cooperation. This shift could lead to more egalitarian and democratic societies.
In summary, Bregman challenges the veneer theory by presenting evidence that humans are not inherently selfish but possess a fundamental capacity for cooperation. Understanding this aspect of human nature can transform how we organize our societies, potentially leading to a more just and equitable world.
Engage in a structured debate with your classmates. Divide into two groups: one supporting veneer theory and the other advocating for the inherent cooperative nature of humans. Use evidence from anthropology, psychology, and sociology to support your arguments. This will help you critically analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective.
Select a historical event, such as World War II or a significant social movement, and analyze it through the lens of veneer theory and the evolution of cooperation. Discuss how human behavior during these events aligns or contradicts the concepts presented by Bregman. This activity will deepen your understanding of the complexities of human nature.
Participate in a role-playing exercise where you assume the roles of individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Explore scenarios that highlight empathy and xenophobia. Reflect on how these dynamics influence human interactions and discuss strategies to foster inclusivity and understanding in diverse groups.
Work in teams to design a model institution (e.g., school, workplace, or community center) based on the assumption that people are fundamentally decent. Present your design to the class, explaining how it promotes trust, cooperation, and egalitarian principles. This project encourages creative thinking and application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Write a reflective essay on your personal views regarding human nature. Consider how the concepts of veneer theory and human cooperation influence your perspective. Discuss how these ideas might impact your approach to social interactions and societal contributions. This activity allows for introspection and personal growth.
Veneer – A superficial or deceptively attractive appearance, display, or effect, often used to mask the true nature of something. – In social psychology, individuals may present a veneer of confidence to mask underlying insecurities.
Theory – A system of ideas intended to explain something, based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained. – In sociology, the conflict theory suggests that society is in a state of perpetual conflict due to competition for limited resources.
Psychology – The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context. – Cognitive psychology explores how people perceive, think, and solve problems.
Sociology – The study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society. – Sociology examines how social institutions and relationships influence behavior and attitudes.
Cooperation – The process of working together to the same end, often essential for achieving complex goals in social groups. – Cooperation among team members is crucial for the success of group projects in organizational psychology.
Empathy – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, a key component in social interactions and relationships. – Empathy is considered a fundamental skill in clinical psychology for building therapeutic relationships.
Xenophobia – Dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries, often studied in the context of social identity and group dynamics. – Sociologists study xenophobia to understand how fear of the ‘other’ can influence societal cohesion and conflict.
Altruism – The belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others, often discussed in the context of social behavior and evolutionary psychology. – Altruism is a topic of interest in psychology, as researchers explore why individuals engage in helping behaviors without expecting anything in return.
Behavior – The way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others, a primary focus of psychological study. – Behavioral psychology seeks to understand how environmental factors influence observable actions.
Society – A group of individuals involved in persistent social interaction, or a large social group sharing the same geographical or social territory. – Sociologists analyze how different societies develop norms and values that shape individual behavior.
