In the Australian animated sitcom Koala Man, the eponymous protagonist expresses frustration that the media paints a negative picture of his heroism. It’s a classic case of “tall poppy syndrome”, he says — “If anyone becomes too successful in Australia, our fellow citizens feel the need to cut them down like a flower in a field.”
Tall poppy syndrome is a real social phenomenon in Australia and New Zealand, with laments from citizens about the ingrained notion in their culture. Making any sort of unconventional achievement or punching above mediocrity would be met with ridicule, criticism or resentment, aimed to keep “tall poppies” performing at a status quo. These individuals would either conform or deal with the backlash that comes with their accomplishment.
|
