Someone said to me recently that self-serving philosophies spread faster than altruistic ones. A practice that advances a personal agenda is more popular than an action that is primarily for the benefit of others.

While I accept my friend’s practical observation, I have a hard time with it. Clearly, an ideal scenario would be a self-interested action with an “other-centered” result, but in lieu of that magic combination, what’s really possible here?

If you look at popular self-help book titles, it would appear that feeling good, being successful, and finding true love are the main goals in life.  Personally, I find this hard to swallow. I can’t shake my belief that helping others is equally—if not more—important.

The capability of selfless action defines humanity. I have come to accept that it is rare, but I firmly believe that focusing outside of the self is the route to true happiness.  Creative endeavors are about delivering messages outward; they are not about bank accounts or staying young or achieving power. The act of creation is blissful, and yet it is not selfish; it’s generative.

I don’t understand why giving isn’t as popular as getting.

Do you think altruism is an illusion? Is it an afterthought once you’ve taken care of yourself?