Matthew Principle
The phenomenon where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer - accumulated advantage.
Also known as: Matthew Effect, Accumulated advantage, Rich get richer
Category: Principles
Tags: sociology, economics, inequality, systems, advantage
Explanation
The Matthew Principle (or Matthew Effect) describes the phenomenon of accumulated advantage: those who already have advantage tend to gain more advantage, while those without fall further behind. Named after a biblical verse: 'For to everyone who has, more will be given.' Where the Matthew Principle operates: science (famous scientists get more credit for discoveries), education (early achievers get more attention and resources), wealth (money makes more money), and networks (well-connected people attract more connections). Mechanisms: recognition begets recognition, early success opens doors, resources compound, and systems favor incumbents. Implications: inequality tends to increase naturally, early interventions matter disproportionately, 'level playing fields' don't stay level, and success is partly self-reinforcing. The principle has a dark side: it means talent alone isn't enough, luck in early stages gets magnified, and systemic disadvantage accumulates. For knowledge workers, the Matthew Principle suggests: early career investments compound, visibility matters beyond just competence, and building advantage is strategic - accumulated reputation, networks, and skills create increasing returns.
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