Brownie Points
“Brownie points” is an informal phrase used to describe actions taken to gain favor, approval, or recognition, often from someone in a position of authority. It implies doing something extra, sometimes excessively, not necessarily because it is intrinsically worthwhile, but to impress or gain advantage. The phrase suggests a desire for acknowledgment, a subtle attempt to curry favor, and often carries a playful, slightly cynical undertone. While seemingly lighthearted, the concept of striving for “brownie points” reveals underlying dynamics of social interaction, ambition, and the human need for validation.
Origin of “Brownie Points”
The origins of “brownie points” are rooted in Scottish folklore and mid twentieth century American culture. The term alludes to the Brownies of Scottish folklore—benevolent spirits believed to help around the house at night in exchange for small offerings. Though not a direct connection, this association suggests the idea of earning rewards through helpful deeds. The phrase itself gained prominence in the 1940s. It is documented in J.E. Lighter’s Historical Dictionary of American Slang as appearing around that time, initially in a military context, possibly referencing a system of informal credit or reward. A 1951 article in the Los Angeles Times titled “Brownie Points: A New Measure of Husband” further popularized the phrase, broadening its application to describe spousal attempts to gain approval. The article playfully explored how wives would perform extra tasks to secure favors or recognition from their husbands.
Analysis: Brownie Points in Literature
The phrase “brownie points” rarely serves as a central theme in literature; instead, it functions as a subtle characterization tool or a commentary on social dynamics. Authors often employ the concept of seeking “brownie points” to reveal motivations, highlight hypocrisy, or expose power imbalances. The power of the phrase lies in its ability to succinctly convey a complex set of behaviors—the eagerness to please, the desire for recognition, and the potential for manipulation—without extensive explanation. Its effectiveness stems from its readily understood cultural context.
Example #1
Riff, Raffles: Days in the Life of a Pattaya Hotel Owner by Kevin Meacher
I was pleased that my efforts of recent weeks had been rewarded with a few brownie points from Mrs. Boss, and I knew these were awarded sparingly. If you are not familiar with the system, brownie points are the opposite of black marks. I had hoped I would be able to accrue enough brownie points, bank them, and have them available to trade against black marks should the need arise. It, however, appears that I got the entire marital black marks and brownie points system completely wrong.
This passage uses “brownie points” within a domestic, almost gamified, framework. The narrator treats his relationship with “Mrs. Boss” as a system of credit and debit, demonstrating a calculated approach to gaining favor. The attempt to “bank” brownie points reveals a transactional view of affection and approval. The humor arises from the absurdity of quantifying emotional capital. The passage is not merely about earning approval; it is a commentary on the often unacknowledged systems of negotiation within relationships.
Example #2
Dirty Laundry: Aired Out the Legal Way by Rhonda Gate
Don’t think that I didn’t notice that you were fifteen minutes late.
Unbelievable, Tracy, I mean, William is in court… I know you are trying to earn brownie points, but damn, you need to prove it. You weren’t at your desk,” Kim said.
“Brownie points, ha… I like that from a liar and a time thief. Don’t think for a minute that I’m not documenting this,” Tracy replied mockingly.
Here, “brownie points” is used to expose hypocrisy and resentment. Kim accuses Tracy of insincere attempts to gain favor while simultaneously engaging in questionable behavior herself. The phrase functions as a cynical jab, highlighting the performative nature of workplace interactions and the underlying tension between colleagues. Tracy’s sarcastic response further emphasizes the insincerity of Kim’s accusation. The exchange is not about the lateness itself but about the power dynamics and perceived motives behind the behavior.
Example #3
Tours of Duty: Vietnam War Stories by Michael Lee Lanning
By all accounts, the party was quite a production. It was well planned by our colonel in his attempt to earn brownie points for a potential future assignment. He had one of each type of the group’s aircraft flown in and parked for the ceremony. There were color guards, honor guards, banners, little decorated cocktails for all to enjoy… and the crowning touch—a real live water buffalo borrowed from a local village chief by the headquarters support company commanding officer. Everyone was impressed.
In this military context, “brownie points” reveals a strategic motivation behind extravagant gestures. The colonel’s elaborate party isn’t driven by genuine celebration but by a desire to impress superiors and advance his career. The passage illustrates how ambition can lead to displays of excess and the prioritization of appearance over substance. The humor arises from the absurdity of the lengths to which the colonel goes to secure favor.
Example #4
Pitch Black by Richard Brentnall
But there’s nothing like a victory in war to earn brownie points, to be seen in a new light, something to rally everyone behind you. That’s all I reckon it was about anyway, all of it avoidable in the first place—just brownie points for the two of them, Pinocchio and Gualtieri, except the general dropped a bollock.
This passage presents a cynical view of motivation in a conflict setting. The narrator suggests that the pursuit of “brownie points” is a primary driver of action, even in situations with serious consequences. The phrase exposes a disconnect between genuine heroism and self‑promotion, suggesting that appearances matter more than actual accomplishments. The repeated use of the phrase reinforces the narrator’s jaded perspective.
Beyond Literature: Nuances of “Brownie Points”
While often used playfully, the concept of seeking “brownie points” can have negative connotations. Excessive attempts to curry favor can be perceived as insincere, manipulative, or desperate. The phrase can also imply a transactional view of relationships, reducing genuine connection to a system of reward and punishment. However, not all efforts to gain approval are inherently negative. Showing initiative, being helpful, and demonstrating respect are valuable qualities, even if they also contribute to a positive impression. The key lies in the motivation behind the actions—whether driven by genuine goodwill or solely by self‑interest. Understanding the nuanced context in which the phrase is used is crucial to interpreting its meaning accurately.
Ultimately, “brownie points” remains a vivid and relatable phrase that captures a universal human tendency—the desire for recognition and approval. Its enduring popularity in both everyday language and literature speaks to its power as a concise and evocative descriptor of complex social dynamics.