Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Defining Altruism

From Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altruism


Altruism play /ˈæltrɪzəm/ is a concern for the welfare of others. It is a traditional virtue in many cultures, and a core aspect of various religious traditions, though the concept of 'others' toward whom concern should be directed can vary among cultures and religions. Altruism is the opposite of selfishness.


I read a comment the other day about is there really true altruism.  For every action there is an opposite reaction. One does something because it is the right thing to do. Do you feel good about it? I would say yes.
There is a mental affirmation that you did the right thing. It makes you feel good inside even if you do not acknowledge outwardly. You may do something so often you ignore the fact that you do the right thing.


A clinical evaluation would say it does not exist. It would have to be robotic not to have a feeling of some type of payback. But then, someone built the robot didn't they?


What ever the reason, don't stop being nice. Being nice can but shouldn't be analyzed.
Be human, that is all you can be.


coffee time


ray

2 comments:

linda said...

Empathy is what drives altruism. I believe people do things for others because they have empathy. Not everyone has a WIFM mentality.

Nothing wrong with feeling good about doing good.

It sure beats feeling good about doing bad things.

raydenzel1 said...

Linda

I agree. People like to over analyze intentions instead of taking them at face value. Do things that make you happy.

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