Not countersignaling as such, but and interesting related question. If you do a favor for somebody without them knowing, should you tell? On one hand you might feel it’s bragging (so NOT telling might be viewed (or confused with) as countersignaling). On the other, there is a an element of social reciprocity that is a communal benefit, and the information contributes to it. Cialdini (in ‘Yes!’) and the Talmud (do not remember where) specifically say yes, even though Talmud generally places high value on humility.
Not countersignaling as such, but and interesting related question. If you do a favor for somebody without them knowing, should you tell? On one hand you might feel it’s bragging (so NOT telling might be viewed (or confused with) as countersignaling). On the other, there is a an element of social reciprocity that is a communal benefit, and the information contributes to it. Cialdini (in ‘Yes!’) and the Talmud (do not remember where) specifically say yes, even though Talmud generally places high value on humility.
I usually tell them, but I try to use a tone that suggests that I don’t think it’s a big deal.