In this episode, we discuss "friendliness" as an idea which refers to strategic kindness and sympathy shown towards others primarily out of interest in social standing rather than genuine concern. We discuss how this phenomenon, conceived by Michael Moffatt, an anthropology professor at Rutgers in the 1980's, operates and what validity we ascribe to it.

Further Reading:

The New York Times, "Paperbacks; No orgies, Please, We're Studying"

Reed Magazine, "In Memoriam - Marston Michael Moffatt"

Amazon, "Coming of Age in New Jersey: College and American Culture"