This quote is essentially saying that if you don’t acknowledge the fact that people often behave in ways that primarily benefit themselves, you’re being naive. Self-serving bias refers to the common human tendency to attribute our successes to our own abilities or efforts, while blaming failures on external factors. This can lead to a skewed perception of reality, where we see ourselves in an overly positive light.
In the context of other people’s behavior, recognizing self-serving bias means understanding that people often act with their own interests in mind, even if they claim or appear to be acting altruistically. If you overlook this, you risk being manipulated or taken advantage of.
Applying this idea to today’s world, it’s especially relevant in areas like politics, business, and social media, where people often present themselves in a certain way to gain support or approval. For instance, a politician might make promises they don’t intend to keep to win votes, or a company might exaggerate the benefits of its products to boost sales. By being aware of self-serving bias, you can make more informed decisions and protect your own interests.
In terms of personal development, understanding self-serving bias can help you become more self-aware and honest with yourself. It can encourage you to take responsibility for your failures instead of blaming them on external factors, and to be more humble about your successes, recognizing the role of luck and other people’s help. At the same time, being aware of self-serving bias in others can help you navigate social and professional relationships more effectively.