Zero-Sum Game: Between the Cold and Warm Paths
Is there such a thing as a zero-sum game in the real world?
If two people fight over one apple, the first person gains and the second person loses. The first person feels superiority and guilt, while the second feels inferiority and loss. The apple might seem zero-sum, but the relationship between the two is negative. To get the next apple, they might need to exert more effort and take greater risks. Overall, society loses. It’s a cold path.
If they share the apple, both gain half. There will be a momentary joy and a lasting bond between them. Though the apple might seem zero-sum, their relationship is positive. The next apple can probably be acquired with mutual effort and lower risk. Overall, society gains. It’s a warm path.
Prerequisites for Choosing the Warm Path
I’m not just being idealistic. For us to take the warm path, there are two prerequisites.
The first is the situation where one doesn’t absolutely need to have the apple. Not when it’s needed to avoid starvation, maintain one’s identity, or fill a void in the heart. In such cases, there is no warm path.
The second is being able to trust the other person. Believing that sharing brings mutual joy and forms a bond. Without this trust, the warm path might not be visible.
If these two conditions are met, the warm path is logical. There’s no reason to take the cold path. However, if the conditions aren’t met, the only choice is the cold path. It’s inevitable.
Reconsidering the Prerequisites
But, is it so common for these conditions not to be met?
For the first condition, looking narrowly, only the cold path seems available. Yet, when sharing bread or the next apple, they might agree to make concessions. With a broader view, the warm path might be found. Seeking this is logical. In Japanese, this principle is “giri” or Implicit rule of delayed compensation obligation, akin to “give and take” in English.
Or, in times of abundance, if one supports another’s cold path, they might reciprocate when circumstances change. Taking such precautions in good times is a rational strategy. In Japanese, this principle is “ninjo” or circular social compromise based on kindness, echoing philosopher John Rawls’ veil of ignorance.
The second condition is a matter of trust. It might fail. Trust might be betrayed. But if the stakes of losing the bet, the gains of winning, and the odds of winning point to an expected positive outcome, betting on the warm path is logical.
Moreover, instead of passively accepting a negative outcome, thinking about ways to increase the odds and working hard to pave the warm path is logical.
Harnessing the Power of Idealism Efficiently
Idealism doesn’t yield much power. The energy that arises from appealing to our hearts is minimal. This small energy should be focused on this bet.
Pushing the bounds of rationality leads to a 50/50 chance. The unpredictable future always boils down to 50/50. Here, we should use that slight emotional energy to make boulders roll down the warm path. It’s wiser to conserve the force that idealism brings at this juncture and use it for the brave decision.
The Role of Irrationality
Humans, of course, sometimes find rational choices difficult due to emotions or cognitive assumptions. Not all of this can be denied.
Within such irrational things the value that we truly want to cherish. It may vary depending on the individual, society, or culture. However, what truly holds value is encapsulated not in rational thought, but within these things.
Still, there’s merit in relying on one’s rationality, being aware of one’s irrationality. And, there’s also merit in believing that many people can exhibit rationality, while also recognizing and embracing the diversity of mutual irrationality.
Conclusion: Beyond the Zero-Sum Perspective
What we should tackle with our intellect is the game of cold and warm paths. It isn’t the zero-sum game.
While free competition has certainly brought about wealth, without a certain level of wealth, we can’t meet the first condition. The growth of wealth is also beneficial. But who can explain the reason for seeing everything through the lens of competition? Nobody can do it.
Why would someone with a clear mind and rational judgment stir up conflict, hurt others, or tarnish the motivation of those aiming for the warm path? Why can’t they see the essence of this game?
At the very least, we shouldn’t regard proponents of the cold path as wise. Instead, we should continue to search for the warm path. Companies and investors are increasingly shifting their focus to both competition and collaboration, as exemplified by initiatives like ESG investing and the SDGs. This might be emblematic of the times.
This is the rational world we live in and should aim for.
