The science of zero-sum thinking: a scoping review of 10 years of empirical research

Zero-sum thinking, the belief that gains for one party necessitate losses for another, pervades social and psychological phenomena, influencing conflict resolution. Yet, research on this concept remains fragmented across disciplines, hindering a comprehensive understanding through a systematic approach. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review of 192 studies, encompassing 67 peer-reviewed papers published in the past decade. This analysis identified 12 recurring themes, including prejudice, international conflict, and policy-making. We systematically reviewed the methodologies, key findings, and limitations within each theme, highlighting both commonalities and divergences. Additionally, we illuminate critical gaps and propose future research directions. This work offers a state-of-the-art synthesis, positioning zero-sum thinking as a vital lens for comprehending and addressing contemporary social conflicts. Furthermore, our findings promote cross-disciplinary dialogue, fostering innovation among researchers and practitioners invested in understanding zero-sum thinking across diverse domains.