The economics of kindness

A random statement this morning got me to thinking about supply and demand.  When I studied economics in college (more than 30 years ago) supply and demand thinking was the prevalent economic model.  Supply side economics was just beginning to be explored as an economic model.

I found myself thinking about demand fluctuations, and supply chain interruptions, and how they can affect the greater market.

Then I thought about things for which there is always more demand than supply, like tickets to a really big event.

Then being me, I thought about the intangible things for which there is always more demand than supply, and kindness was the first thing that came to mind.

It doesn't cost anything to be kind.  It doesn't take more time to be kind than to be unkind.  So, why does the need for kindness (demand) always seem to deplete the supply?

I have a few theories, and I'd like feedback from those reading on your opinions on this.

Theory One:  We have been conditioned to be indifferent at best, and unkind at worst by the dialogue we hear when listening to the world around us.  For example, in the grocery store, someone has put their cart on one side of the aisle, and is standing on the other side searching the shelves.  You overhear the comment, "So selfish, she thinks the whole world is here for her and you can just wait while she blocks the aisle."

Theory Two:  It is easier to withhold kindness.  For example, in the grocery store, you see someone in line with a full grocery cart, and behind them is a mother with an obviously sick child.  The mother has pedialyte, diapers, baby wipes, and other items that all look related to caring for a sick child.  There is no express checkout open.  The person looks at the mother and child, and just keeps their place in line, because it is easier to do nothing.

Theory Three:  We are so engaged with our devices and in our own heads that we never notice kindness is an option. For example, in the grocery store, you are talking on your phone with someone, because grocery shopping doesn't really take your full attention, and this is a great opportunity to multitask.  You don't even notice the old woman who can't reach the item she needs on the shelf, because you are more observant of your conversation than your surroundings.

What if we approached every day and every situation looking to supply kindness?

In the first example, you might instead hear the comment, "Excuse me, I hate to interrupt you, but would it be OK if I moved your cart to get past?" Kindness supplied.

In the second example, you might see the people in the checkout line one by one letting the mother with the sick child go ahead of them to get her child home. Kindness supplied.

In the third example, you would notice the woman struggling, and reach up to get her the item she needs.  Kindness supplied.

I think the supply of kindness could be increased exponentially just by being more mindful that kindness is always an available choice.  Even when correction is necessary, it can be done with kindness.

The demand (need) for kindness in this world will always outstrip the supply as long as we as individuals don't supply kindness in more of our interactions, and in our passive responses.

It doesn't take time or money to be kind, so there should be an endless supply.