Helmut Schoeck

Helmut Schoeck was a German sociologist and philosopher best known for his work on envy and its impact on society.His most influential book, Envy: A Theory of Social Behaviour (1966), argues that envy is a powerful but often destructive force that shapes social structures, economic policies, and cultural attitudes. Schoeck warned that societies that attempt to eliminate inequality through state intervention often foster resentment rather than progress. His work remains relevant in discussions on capitalism, social justice, and economic development.