Origins of bullying
The desire to survive is instinctual and common among all living things. Survival is associated directly
with competition due to the multitude of species and limited natural resources on the planet. Since the beginning
of time there has been a constant drive to out-perform others and overcome obstacles. This survival
instinct, along with a competitive atmosphere, has remained the same as the human race has evolved. Both
of these forces have flowed over into the educational, social, and economic realms. This competitive hierarchy,
though prevalent in most societies, varies across cultures depending on their ethical systems, traditions,
and the type of control exerted by the government. Unfortunately, the U.S. capitalistic society inadvertently
pushes the belief that success and wealth go hand in hand. This ideology has shaped a nation where bullying
is unintentionally instilled as a survival tactic from a very young age.