Shana Alexander: 'The sad truth is that excellence makes people nervous.'

The sad truth is that excellence makes people nervous.

The quote by Shana Alexander, "The sad truth is that excellence makes people nervous," speaks volumes about the human tendency to feel intimidated by exceptional achievement. It holds great meaning and importance as it highlights a rather disheartening reality of our society. When someone excels in a certain field or displays extraordinary skills, it often triggers feelings of insecurity and anxiety in others. This remarkable quote sheds light on a significant aspect of human psychology and social dynamics.In a straightforward sense, the quote implies that people are often uncomfortable and uneasy around those who excel in their respective fields. This uneasiness can stem from various reasons. For one, witnessing excellence can remind individuals of their own shortcomings or lack of achievements, thereby triggering feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. It is common for people to compare themselves to those who excel and perceive it as a reflection of their own capabilities.Furthermore, the presence of excellence can create a sense of pressure and high expectations. When surrounded by individuals who consistently display exceptional skills, others may feel the need to meet those same standards, which can be an overwhelming prospect for many. The fear of failure or not living up to these lofty expectations can contribute to the nervousness that arises when faced with excellence.Importantly, this quote provokes us to question the nature of our societal structures. Why does excellence make people nervous? Is there something inherently flawed in our value systems and the way we measure success? To delve deeper into this topic, let us introduce the intriguing philosophical concept of "egalitarianism."Egalitarianism, in its simplest form, suggests that all individuals should be equal in rights, including social, economic, and political equality. While it is a noble principle to strive for, it can potentially clash with the concept of excellence. By its very nature, excellence implies a certain degree of hierarchy or differentiation. It highlights the fact that some individuals surpass others in specific areas, whether it be intelligence, talent, or hard work.The tension arises when we try to reconcile the desire for equality with the reality of human diversity and the existence of excellence. The nervousness and unease people experience in the face of excellence could be seen as a subconscious resistance to the unequal distribution of exceptional qualities or skills. It brings forth questions about how we define and reward excellence in a way that acknowledges individual talents while still maintaining an egalitarian society.However, it is essential to recognize that excellence, despite making people nervous, also serves as a catalyst for growth and inspiration. When we are exposed to individuals who excel in their fields, it can ignite a desire within us to improve ourselves and strive for greatness. Excellence serves as a reminder that there is always room for growth and development, and it encourages us to push our boundaries.In conclusion, Shana Alexander's quote about excellence making people nervous encapsulates a sad truth about human nature and social dynamics. It sheds light on the uneasiness and self-doubt that arise when faced with exceptional achievement. By introducing the philosophical concept of egalitarianism, we begin to explore the tension between the desire for equality and the reality of excellence. Despite the discomfort it may cause, excellence also acts as a source of inspiration and growth. It challenges us to question our societal structures and encourages us to strive for personal improvement.