A Cornell study found that early-life luck significantly impacts adult outcomes in male mice, particularly in competitive environments. Small advantages, such as securing shelter early, create feedback loops that amplify success or failure over time.
Male mice who gain initial territory often maintain dominance, interact with more females, and secure long-term benefits, while others face persistent disadvantages. These outcomes arise from chance rather than genetic or merit-based factors.
The research highlights how luck, combined with social competition, drives inequality, offering insights into broader social and biological systems.
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