Need for Fairness

Fairness – the sense that people get what they deserve and follow reciprocal norms – is a cornerstone of stable societies and groups. Humans (and even other cooperative animals) show strong reactions to unfairness and will go to lengths to enforce fair behavior or reciprocate kind acts (e.g. punishing cheaters, rewarding cooperators). The need for fairness may compel us to establish clear rules, identify and correct biases or injustices, and try to share both benefits and burdens in a more even-handed way. Evolutionary and social psychology research suggests that this fairness impulse may have evolved because it promotes long-term cooperation: groups where members feel treated justly are more likely to stick together and work through conflicts. Indeed, when people perceive fairness, they’re more willing to cooperate repeatedly, trusting that others won’t exploit them. In summary, fairness keeps everyone invested in the social contract, thereby sustaining cooperation over the long run.