Whether encountered as a grim historical note, a metaphor in finance, or a line in fiction, the phrase man eats man describes situations where people harm or exploit one another for survival or gain. At its simplest, it names literal cannibalism under extreme duress, notably survival cannibalism documented in maritime disasters and conflicts. Figuratively, it captures ruthless competition, workplace exploitation, and economic cycles in which individuals or institutions prioritize profit over wellbeing. This explainer defines the phrase in literal and symbolic contexts, reviews documented cases, and outlines why it persists in journalism, art, and political commentary as a shorthand for systemic harm.
