Altruism has been abundantly in view during the Harvey and Irma disasters. People with shallow-draft boats, for instance, went wherever needed to rescue those in danger from fast-rising floods. Kindness was exhibited to scared adults and children alike. Pets were handled gently by those who knew their value to families. Divisions disappeared; there was no room for racial issues for rescuers or those being rescued. Food, water, and money were being collected all over the country for those who would need assistance.
“Heartwarming” seems insufficient to describe the altruistic behavior, though it was that. To me, it was a validation of our better selves, a reaffirmation of our good natures and willingness to reach out to those in need, whether friend or stranger. No one asked about political or religious affiliation, they just pitched in however they could.
Apparently, the word “altruism” didn’t exist before the 19th century; it was devised by French sociologist and philosopher of science Auguste Compte as the opposite of “egoism” or self-interest. Altruism is concerned with the welfare of others. It’s bigger than loyalty, transcending relationships. Instead, it looks after the community, the greater good of people who may be strangers. Ethicists claim that individuals are morally obliged to help each other. Most religions promote some version of reaching out to assist whoever may need help.
Altruism has nothing to do with “quid pro quo,” or an expectation of repayment. It’s a donation of self that expects nothing in return, even though there’s a cost to oneself, whether in time, money, effort, or quality of life. Just think of the hundreds of volunteers, for example, who got trained by the Red Cross to go where there’s no power, running water, or enough supplies; they go because they care, despite the inconvenience and discomfort.
Individuals may experience “the helper’s high” or positive feelings for their actions. As the Dalai Lama said, “The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes.” Altruism benefits all of us.
by Kathleen Vestal Logan, MS, MA September 15, 2017