Consciousness and Greed: A Mathematical Model of Human Greed and Its Behavioral Implications

Abstract

This study presents and validates a novel mathematical model aimed at illuminating the relationship between consciousness and human greed. The model, at its core, views greed as a function of an individual's scope of desires and their appreciation for what they currently possess. The ambition here is to capture the entire gamut of human aspirations, ranging from material to emotional and spiritual, while highlighting the role of consciousness in their modulation. Leveraging a cross-sectional survey design and a diverse demographic sample, two primary variables are quantified: 'Quantity of Desires,' which encapsulates the range and intensity of an individual's aspirations, and 'Appreciation of Possessions,' denoting the value attributed to current assets, achievements, and life circumstances. The resulting data serve to calculate a 'Level of Greed' score for each participant. Validation of the model is undertaken through a two-pronged approach: cross-validation with established psychological scales, including the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) and the Aspiration Index, and an assessment of participant feedback concerning the alignment of their calculated 'Level of Greed' score with their perceived lifestyle and level of satisfaction. The study's findings endorse the mathematical model's effectiveness, showcasing its potential for quantitative analysis of the intricate intersection between consciousness and greed, ultimately enhancing the understanding of how consciousness influences human desires and behavioral outcomes.