This counterintuitive twist on justice, where heroes are treated like villains, targets the cooperative and altruistic, creating an environment where generosity and selflessness are discouraged.

It often happens for five reasons.

Social norms define the type of behavior that is accepted in society and that which is not.

Those who deviate too much from these norms, even if they are just trying to help, end up being disliked.

This is because we tend to see those who conform as safe and those who don't as potentially dangerous.

Misinterpretation of intentions can occur when we learn through experience that people who appear nice often end up hurting us, for example through scams or betrayal.

And so, as a response, we may distrust those who exhibit an unusual level of generosity.

Then there is the desire for status.

If someone is virtuous and kind, they may indirectly aim to increase their status.

In groups, this tends to happen at the expense of others, especially those who seem to be more selfish.

And so antisocial punishment becomes a strategy to sabotage the altruists and advance oneself.

Then there is the threatened self-image.

We tend to see ourselves in the best possible light, but when someone around us acts unusually generous, this self-image is threatened and we may become resentful.

For example, when people who eat meat discredit vegetarians, it may stem from their perception of being judged, even without any interaction.

Lastly, we have an inherent need for reciprocity.

Being on the receiving end of altruism can create feelings of shame and guilt that we then project onto those who were helpful, which is why well-meaning therapists who offer their services free of charge may see their patients leave unhappy, while those who charge at least a token fee can build successful long-term relationships.

A study published in Science in 2008 observed antisocial punishment in 15 countries.

Results showed that antisocial punishment is stronger in cultures where selfishness is encouraged, in places with high social inequality, and where governments exhibit higher levels of corruption.

Now, even if it may be in our instinct to punish the altruists, the collective impact of the phenomenon can create a culture of mediocrity, suppress innovation, and ultimately harm the collective well-being.

What are your thoughts?

Have you ever been a victim of your good deeds or felt the urge to punish someone who tries to be a better human being?

Share your experience in the comments below.

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