Poor-quality relationships linked to greater distress than too few relationships
“From a societal perspective, and in the interests of reducing the burden of psychological distress, efforts should be made to enhance the quality of social connections as opposed to promoting the virtues of larger social networks.”<p>They say this, but people with integrity are <i>typically</i> made fun of secretly or even publicly, declared dismissive and asocial, instead of positively recognized in any fashion. They are seen as "rude", as "expecting too much", and at every point of their life, it is as if the society is telling them: "let it go, drop down to our level". Not in those words, but with actions and with the general atmosphere of the society.<p>A Seneca quote has reasoned with me for long time, I'll paraphrase it: you don't need a teacher for the vices!<p>It seems as if people prefer what objectively causes them harm (to their mental health and otherwise).<p>Lying, evil thoughts, friends envious of each other, talking behind their backs, unfaithfulness is more common than being a good person, trying to do your best in this world (which, I am sure, is not easy on anybody), be in a positive mood, if you can't help - at least don't interfere, and so on.<p>We need to somehow improve our ethics and morals on our own, willingly. I know exactly what I did in my life: I read a lot of philosophy. I also come from a very honest family, so that had some impact I am sure.<p>Compare this with <a href="https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=19238633" rel="nofollow">https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=19238633</a> (Why Be Honest If Honesty Doesn't Pay)