We are all selfish

Except for a few momentary cases where a person risks their own lives for others without thinking, almost as a reflex, no one is absolutely altruistic in nature. We are innately selfish and mostly act in our own interests, however great and to whatever extent.

One may say we generally considerate, that may be true, and hopefully is true. But the argument lies in the fact that we are considerate of others not for their benefit, but ultimately for our own. This argument will focus on the subtle "selfishness" in us since corruption and other examples of greed are quite obvious.

This is because, for example, we often watch what we say so as to "not offend" someone. Why? Why do we care? A major reason is that we do not want to look bad in the others by being inconsiderate. It may also be due to the fact that we are taught to "treat others as you would want to be treated", which basically means you are being considerate for possible future redemption. It also means that a lot of us are considerate because of cultural pressures to conform to a set of moral values and beliefs. If we don't conform to them, we may get into trouble of some sort, so we are considerate to save our own asses.

Often we give missionaries as an example of an altruistic person. True, they may seem altruistic in all intents and purposes. But there is also one other reason why they help others--they do it to make themself feel good. Many of us can relate to this feeling. We help others because it may make us feel happy, successful, worthy, important etc. This may also be the reason why philanthropists help many others less fortunate than they are. You may argue that they do it purely because they want to give others a better shot at life. That may be true. But they are acting out of their sense of duty or responsibility to change something, which, ultimately makes them feel a sense of achievement.

I hope it's now making a little sense why all are to some extent selfish. For many of us, this selfishness is negligible most of the times. Often it's just a survival response--it is only natural for us to take care of ourselves before we look towards others. My argument is not that we are all bad because we are selfish, it is just that we are innately selfish beings.

I praise the efforts of those altruistic people, missionaries and philanthropists and so many others who are making a difference to people's lives. For better or worse, it's for history to decide, but giving your life for a cause can't go unnoticed. Even if it not recognised, you yourself know why you did it and you would not grudge over such a trivial matter.

As for those corrupted and greedy pigs out there, you can BURN IN HELL!!!