Tall poppy syndrome

Tall poppy syndrome is a syndrome in Anglosphere countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and others where the successful and/or proud are actively undermined by others. It is often due to envy or due to human nature wanting to see the proud humbled. The nouveau riche who often flaunt their wealth are frequently the targets of tall poppy syndrome.

Although tall poppy syndrome reflects excess envy in society and punishes success, it can also serve a useful function such as curbing the excess pride of politicians who might otherwise abuse their power.

External links

• Tall Poppy Syndrome - Academic paper from the University of Tasmania

• Avoiding the Tall Poppy Syndrome

• Flogging the tall-poppy syndrome

• New Zealand’s Tall Poppy Syndrome and PC madness

• Tom O'Neill, Viterbo University, 2005 Fulbright–Hays Seminar Abroad, Tall Poppy Syndrome: Bentham’s Utilitarianism in Australia

• Does NZ still cut down tall poppies?