HabitableZone

Flame » in reply to A zero sum-game.

You've got it backwards

A zero sum game means that for someone to win someone else must lose by an equal amount. In a non zero sum world there are more winners than losers. That works because people have different values they place on things.

The French winemaker produces excellent wine for $10 a bottle. The English winemaker produces crap wine for $20 a bottle. The English shoemaker produces fine shoes for $10 a pair. The French shoemaker produces crap shoes for $20 a pair. Trade makes it possible for both to have quality wine and shoes for a better price. Who loses? English winemakers and French shoemakers. Who gains? Everyone else in England and France who pays less for better quality wine and shoes. There are far more winners than losers. That is non zero sum.

When you buy anything it's because you feel the money your paying is worth its value. The seller feels selling it is worth the money they are getting. Both get what they want. Non zero sum.

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