Airplaneseatreclineology

Transcript
Eric: I have developed a theory that explains the entire human condition. It's called "airplaneseatreclineology".

David: What is it?

Eric: Well, allow me to explain. Imagine that there's two people each in cramped conditions on a plane. Person "A" can lessen his discomfort by reclining his seat. But there's a catch.

David: What's the catch?

Eric: His increased comfort can only come at the expense of Person "B", who is further cramped by the reclined seat in front of him.

David: So why would Person "A" do it?

Eric: Because the airline says he can. And that's "airplaneseatreclineology". People will do what they can, regardless of its effects on others. And that's why the world is in the state it's in.

David: So why don't you do something to try and change it?

Eric: Because I'd slam my fellow passenger's head in a retractable tray table if they let me.

David (agitated): Wonderful.

Eric: Hey, philosophers love wisdom, not mankind.