Does altruism exist?

Question

altruism defined: the view that the well-being of others should have as much importance for us as the well-being of ourselves. Some argue that altruism, even if it is desirable, is not possible, and that our ethics must be based on egoism.

Answer 1

Yes and No.

At best I would argue that altruism is idealistic. At some point in any being's life, there will have been a time they placed themselves first.

As a goal, Altruism does exist, if one seeks to attain a higher self through such pathways. Essentially you can practice Altruism, but never be truly Altruistic.

Therefore pure Atruism cannot exist physically, only in theory and logic. Altruistc properties can be ascribed to an individual.

If one was to attemmpt an ultimte state, you would at least starve.

PS, great question - had me thinking for a while.

Answer 2

Yes. In bees it definitely does. They sting, they die.

In humans it's kind of like a mother defending her child. Maybe it doesn't occur between strangers, but I believe that it could in family relationships.