Talking ‘bout my reputation

Reputation serves an important purpose in a society in which we rely on the cooperation and goodwill of others. Our desire to enhance or preserve it will guide our behaviour, but that doesn’t mean we can expect everyone to behave virtuously to safeguard their reputation

Do you care what others think about you? How would you feel if you were on a busy train, with a bunch of total strangers staring at you, and suddenly noticed there is a sizeable blob of bird poo on your shoulder, some of which has even made it into your hair? Chances are you would be embarrassed (if not mortified), even though you’d probably never see any of your fellow passengers ever again, and even though what happened was not your fault, and in no way illustrative of your personality or character. And still, you’d be unable to rationalize the situation, and ignore not just the mocking glances of some of the other travellers, but also your own response to the situation.

We want to look good in the eyes of others — even if they are complete strangers. It is not hard to see how, in an environment where we rely on cooperation with others, having a good reputation can help us secure the willingness of others to go along with us…