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Do you believe that most people act according to their own self-interest? Is acting only according to your self-interest a good strategy in life? (mander.xyz)

submitted 5 days ago* (last edited 5 days ago) by gay_sex@mander.xyz to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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An argument can be made that all actions people take are for their own self-interest. Even things like helping the community is done for reciprocal benefits for yourself plus the general increase in respect.

Another point is that if all people just act for their own self-interest, they will have a better life themselves, and if everyone does the same, some sort of proper balance will be achieved.

I have been having some occasional discussions with my friends over this. I personally disagree, but would love to hear what others have to say. Feel free to discuss!

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[–] pinball_wizard@lemmy.zip 4 points 5 days ago* (last edited 5 days ago) (1 children)

That's where the term "Enlightened Self Interest" comes from.

Naive short-sighted stupid self interest is destructive - both to the community and even to the self interested individual.

But self-interest doesn't have to go away. We all have wants and needs, and most of our wants and needs are (mostly) harmless.

Instead, self interest can be enlightened - seasoned with understanding of the bigger picture, and with the wisdom of other's experiences.

[–] memfree@lemmy.ml 4 points 5 days ago

Agreed!

I might think it is in my self interest to lie, cheat and steal, but if I do that, my community and my reputation are worsened, and I may have a harder time getting a better position in a crappier world.

If instead I think it in my self interest to volunteer at the local food bank, I might see my community and reputation improved, and by demonstrating a commitment to community, perhaps I will get a better job offer.

More basically: civilization has figured out that fair trade benefits both the farmer who needs tools and the blacksmith who needs food. It is in everyones' self-interest to support things like: rule of law, commerce, and education.