Altruistic Or Selfish

[nailit]

Do you think that Human Beings are selfish by nature or more inclined towards altruism?
I used to be of the opinion that humans were...by and large...essentially selfish creatures and that any act of selflessness was only acted on to serve ones own ends (or at least that of ones own offspring)
My upcoming employment working at the foodbank could be seen as altruistic...but its not! I just want a job. I *DO* however get a sense of satisfaction from the past 8 months of voluntary work, as I have of other voluntary work...
but just makes me wonder why?


Cant help thinking that no matter what 'spin' we put on things that ultimately we are all selfish in one way or another, but in another way we cant but help having some kind of empathy with others as well.
(unless we suffer from some kind of abberation like psychopathy)

[Theland]

It is in my own nature to go without and give to those in need. My kids and four charities, as well as money in the box when I can.
Don't spend anything on myself only got two jumpers, were one, other in the wash.
Spare money always used for others.

[david small]

Man is by nature selfish. It’s a survival instinct. Though those of a more cerebral nature have the capacity though not always the intent to surpass the evolutionary constraints we inherit. Some few are capable of total altruism, it’s just extremely seldom exercised.

[woofgang]

But, Theland, does the way you live give you pleasure or do you hate your lifestyle but do it anyway?

[Old_Geezer]

I think this is one of those arguments that one can support either way. One can find a selfish excuse to explain an apparent altruistic action, or conversely find an altruistic explanation for acts of selfishness. Unsure I care much as long as the result is folk acting well.

[Calicogirl]

My father (now Pagan lapsed Roman Catholic) always told me to look after those weaker and more vulnerable than I am, so I try to. He would seriously give his last fiver away. My mother is slightly more pragmatic, she wouldn't do that if penniless, but she would create a situation where she was able to do significant good by making her own situation strong first. Mr Cal will give anything to anyone as long as he doesn't sense he's being played. They are all alturistic rather than selfish just in different ways and I like to think I am too by and large.

[Prudie]

There is a deeper argument that all these things 'people' do for other people are not altruistic at all because they make the doer feel good about themselves - that's not true altruism which should attract no benefit.

[Theland]

Wolf - How can I relax knowing somebody I love is in need? Any way, would I be happier with three, four ju,pers? Think not.

[nailit]

//Wolf - How can I relax knowing somebody I love is in need?//
Exactly why I cant subscribe to ur heaven/hell doctrine.

[Theland]

Whether you subscribe to it or not is of no consequence to me.
It is what it is. Take it or leave it.
No matter how strong your views, it won't change reality.

[nailit]

//Whether you subscribe to it or not is of no consequence to me//

WOW!
Take a close look at that.

Im all right Jack!

[Calicogirl]

This is my truth- tells me yours though Theland... people's personal unproveable truths are not fact, just their feelings and opinions.

[andy-hughes]

I think humans are far too complex to simply fit into one box or the other, I think we all have mixtures of both traits, and even then, they fluctuate depending on individual circumstances.

[Baldric]

I don't know why my post vanished, all I want to say is do your best whatever you can.

[Mamyalynne]

Very true Andy - if I derive warmth and a sense of peace from knowing my day was not wasted by helping someone I'll wear a hat that says I'm selfish if that matters to anyone.

It's a rum do this being human business isn't it?

[Theland]

I'm not alright Jack. I am tired.

[Calicogirl]

It certainly is Mamya, I'll own up to enjoying a little glow if I do something nice, I don't think that makes me a bad person though. Or does it?

[Mamyalynne]

No it doesn't, the way I look at it - if someone wants to label someone else that's their issue, not mine.

[237SJ]

Having observed humans over many years I have come to the conclusion that men are more selfish than women - definitely.

[naomi24]

People who broadcast their good deeds aren't altruistic. They do whatever they do for themselves.

[eviltwin44]

Look after number one first, that'sme