The Matthew Effect

The Matthew Effect, named after a biblical passage, describes how initial advantages tend to compound over time. In general knowledge, it means that individuals or groups who start with more knowledge or resources are likely to gain even more, while those with less struggle to keep up. For instance, a child exposed to books early on may develop better reading skills and a larger vocabulary, leading to greater educational opportunities. This phenomenon can create a widening gap in knowledge and expertise, making it harder for those starting with fewer resources to catch up.