Does Altruism Really Exist?

Question

Altruism is defined as a practice which helps/ benefits others or does good without reward. Is this really possible or does the 'feel good factor' from doing something for others a reward in itself?

Answer 1

Yes, it can be argued that there's really no such thing as altruism if the "without reward" measure is used. How about "without concern for reward." Will that do? If so, then altruism really does exist. Sometimes we help another just because they need it, and we can provide it. I know you tend to get immune to beggars on the street if you live where that is common. You say to yourself, "Well, I can't give to them all, every day I see them, so I won't give to any." But that does not excuse a need to be human and compassionate when there is something you can reasonably do on an individual basis, or as part of an organized effort.

People need to feel the needs of others as part of being human, but they also need to pick and choose their opportunities for altruism, because you can't do it all, and because it is not fair to your family to impoverish them in an effort to "give all you have to the poor" for whatever reason.

Answer 2

There are many people who look after elderly/disabled people for no pay with no thought for reward but simply because that is what needs to be done. They themselves do not think they are doing anything special and many do not get any 'feel good factor' but feel worn down by their efforts yet they still continue to offer support and practical help. I think this is what altruism is the doing something that benefits another without though or fuss and in the knowledge that there is no reward. You should not look at altruism just as a 'big concept' and ignore the genuine selflessness that is an every day occurence

Answer 3

Well it's hard to say. Whether it's a missionary who does so much for others or a parent who puts their children ahead of themselves, one could argue that there is always a reward or benefit for the giver. An altruistic person has the benefit of knowing they do good for other people, the satisfaction of feeling good for making a difference. There's a certain romance to feeling like a martyr, putting everyone else before yourself. The only true altruist would be someone who was doing their good deeds in secret. Someone who wouldn't get any recognition, whose kindness would be anonymous. I guess they'd have to be wearing a mask. Like Batman. Of course, then they still get to feel like a hero...

So the answer is no, there are nice people but being good is its own reward. There is always a benefit.

But I'm a selfish person myself so I'm merely guessing! Tee hee

:)

Answer 4

I think the "feel good factor" rules out true altruism, but doing good for others just for the reward of feeling good about it is the most selfless selfish act there is.

Answer 5

A question that I have debated with others in the past. To my chagrin, I will admit that that satisfaction of having done good acts, even if unacknowledged or unknown by the recipients, is, indeed, a reward to my self or ego. I have arrived at the conclusion that, in absolute terms, altruism does not exist.

Answer 6

On altruism I propose analyzing Kant's writing via fact he had an exceptionally thrilling ideology on that concept. in spite of the undeniable fact that, i think interior the skill of altruism, via fact if absolutely everyone had it, then the international might actually be a greater efficient place... yet it is my 'perfected' imaginitive and prescient of the international, and actually, regrettably, there are continually ulterior motives. Ulterior motives are very frustrating to do away with in people, and on a similar time as i attempt to be an altruist, in actuality that I continually discover an ulterior reason to my "selfless movements" and that for the period of itself is often on the muse of corruption in each experience of the be conscious. case in point, think of which you be conscious somebody drowning interior the sea. What might you do? bounce to shop them, call for help, watch them drown. often, human beings might say (in the event that they could swim) that they might bounce to shop them yet is their decision in line with selflessness or a concept on the back of their recommendations that, wow, they stored a existence (in the event that they shop the guy, it is). in actuality, might the solid feeling you adventure while saving that man or woman evidence that someway you had an ulterior reason? in case you have been a real altruist, would not you experience your action as thoroughly customary, if it is sensible? What with reference to the guy who won't be able to swim and yet he nevertheless plunges interior the water to attempt and shop that man or woman drowning. might that be altruism or stupidity? As human beings, we've fairly some emotions and conflicting recommendations that come into play that authentic altruism is impossible, yet while it occurs, it is a uncommon factor. And nevertheless I see that rarety via fact the only thank you to make the international a greater efficient place, yet then, i'm oftentimes happening for being an idealist :)

Answer 7

I think there are some good answers here already. I agree that doing good things "without concern for reward" (as someone above put it - nice distinction) is important. However, I also think there's nothing wrong with getting a 'feel good factor' from doing helpful things. There's enough to feel bad about without feeling bad about feeling good about being nice! :-)

Answer 8

I don't believe that pure altruism exists. but is that a bad thing? we continue to help others and its the help that is to be emphasized not the motive...

Answer 9

YES,it does.One who understands and functions from unconditional Love,having dedicated all actions to a higher power is no longer the doer. it is God within who doeth the work. One in this state "feels better than good" all the time,living in a state of bliss,however bliss in motion is JOY.

Answer 10

Everybody needs a reward...even in Heaven.