The practical consequences of envy are considerable. Whole cultures, as of Indians in northern New Mexico, have been reported to be held back by envy, by resentment that anyone stands out above the crowd and does better. Whereas the Decalogue admonishes lengthily against envy, some North American Indians seem not to have been clearly aware of its pernicious effects. Some sociologists have found that where envy is rampant prosperity is paralyzed. No one dares to show anything that might lead people to think he was better off.
Innovations are unlikely.
Agricultural methods remain traditional and primitive, to the detriment of the whole village, because every deviation from previous practice comes up against the limitations set by envy. The intellectual foundation under altruism, as popularly formulated, is not respectable and must be challenged. The moral foundation often believed to be the true undergirding of altruism is destroyed when an altruist undertakes to compel others to contribute also. If a man compels, or endeavors to compel, others to participate in his particular form of altruism, the motive is probably envy toward and hatred of those he would compel to contribute. Vociferous altruists are often seeking power for themselves, more than welfare of others.