This is an interesting observation by evolutionary psychologists Simler and Hanson. When people compete with each other for power or financial dominance, only one person can win, and this competition is usually destructive for the group as a whole. However, status within a group has two dimensions: power and prestige.
Ideally, one should have both: wealth and respect. But sometimes the two do not go hand in hand. For example, we might imagine a wealthy debt collector who is despised by everyone, or a wise man who lives modestly, is admired by all, and is sought out for advice. Or someone who is simply renowned as a good and honest person.
These two dimensions of status in a group or society are nothing new. However, Simler and Hanson point out that competition for prestige does not have to be destructive. As a rule, it does not lead to situations where the only winner is the one who destroys the others. One person can be the best carpenter, another the most talented musician and another can be renowned for being a popular companion.
