An analysis inspired by Martha Nussbaum: We might say envy is the desire that someone not have something good thing X that we desire ourselves. It implies an inferiority because it implies we do not have X while the object of our envy does. This implies an infantile desire for omnipotent control over having X (ie, an entitlement). Envy is toxic because it blocks admiration for those having good thing X (Eg, excellence), whether it be ourselves or others.