What is the just-world phenomenon?

The just-world phenomenon is defined as the tendency for people to believe that the world is a fair place where individuals generally get what they deserve. This belief often leads individuals to feel that bad things happen to those who are "bad" or deserving of misfortune, while good things occur for those who are "good." This concept helps people cope with the chaotic nature of life by creating a perception of order, justice, and predictability in social interactions and outcomes.

This phenomenon can lead to a range of psychological effects, including victim-blaming, where individuals rationalize the suffering of others by assuming that these individuals brought their misfortune upon themselves. It is rooted in the desire to see the world as a fair place, which can help individuals maintain a sense of control and security.

The other options represent different beliefs and are not aligned with the core definition of the just-world phenomenon. For instance, the idea that everyone has equal opportunities does not incorporate the aspect of deserving outcomes, while the belief that fairness is always achieved does not account for the complexity and irregularity of real-world events. Similarly, the belief that bad things only happen to bad people simplifies the complexities of moral and ethical behavior in society, which does not align with the nuanced understanding of the just