It is a philosophy of progress along the
line of least resistance, ignoring rules, and a lack of sense of
responsibility and consideration for others. It extends to all social groups and throughout the entirety of society. In Argentina, it is predominantly associated with
Buenos Aires and its inhabitants, the
porteños.[3] Viveza criolla has been called "the principal cause of a moral, cultural,
economic, social and
politicalcrisis".[3] It is a similar concept to
jeitinho brasileiro in
Brazil.
Characteristics
Viveza criolla includes:
Lack of
respect for others and indifference to the
common good in a framework of individual interests.[3]
Extreme
individualism, with
mistrust of others. This includes having little ability to partner and cooperate in community goals.[3] (Interpersonal trust is a key component of
social capital, which is crucial for economic development and proper functioning of democratic institutions.)[3]
Anomie or weakening of the common
morality, and social deviance as behavior that departs from generally accepted standards in
society.[3]
The habit of blaming problems on others, thereby encouraging
paranoia and granting a permit to self-indulgence.
The tendency to take advantage of or cheat others in favor of one's own self-interests, partially for reasons of self-protection and mistrust, but also to assert one's superiority and "quick-wittedness" over another.[3]
Phrases
Hecha la ley, hecha la trampa. – "Made the law, made the loophole."
Total, si no robo yo, robará otro. – "In the end, if I do not steal, someone else will."
El vivo vive del zonzo y el zonzo de su trabajo. – "The cunning lives off the sucker, and the sucker lives off his job."
Todos los políticos roban. Él/ella roba pero hace. – "All politicians steal. He/she steals but delivers [social welfare, public works, infrastructure]."