The Myth of Altruism

Altruism:
Disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.

I postulate that altruism is a myth. That we all do things for a reason, these reasons are a product of our minds and fulfill a goal we are praxeological beings. Some of this is based on my own experience and feelings.

Take an example of a way someone might help a person, like giving up a seat for an elderly person,

Societal:
It's what's expected of someone.
It's to help encourage the society around them to do the same should they be in need.
On most public transport it's the rules.

Id massage:
By experiencing a selfless act this satisfies someones Id, this creates a flow of endorphins and then satisfies the ego.

Virtue signalling:
To show the world how good a person you are, this raises the individuals sense of worth within there community and gives others the impression they're a good person.

Fishing for compliments:
Just doing it for the thanks.

Proving me wrong:
After reading this article you'll never know if you're doing it just to prove me wrong or if you're being altruistic.

None of these are reasons to not help others but it's important to be aware of what you do and understand your motives. Only if you're true to yourself can you develop as a person, know yourself and know those around you.