The absence of self. The existence of others.

Men have been taught that the ego is the synonym of evil, and selflessness the ideal of virtue. But the creator is the egoist in the absolute sense, and the selfless man is the one who does not think, feel, judge or act. These are functions of the self.”

Is it possible for a man to be completely selfless?

If we were to discuss selflessness in the actual literal sense, it would mean putting the interests of others above yourself. The act of being kind and generous to others without expecting some sort of personal gain in return. Many thinkers questioned the rationality of the term, stating that selflessness demands the primal beneficiary of your actions be others. Now when I came to think of it, what determines who “the others” should be?. Most of these decisions are based on personal values on who is more worthy to benefit from your act of generosity. This in turn shows how we create a personal decision of worth. Thus, disregarding the true meaning of selflessness, which is acting for the sake of others without thought to oneself.  For example, choosing to help your brother over your enemy is a selfish act, because you are personally determining who is more worthy of your help.  So, is helping your enemy considered selfless? Wouldn’t that conflict your personal values?  See how we inevitably associate our feelings and thoughts when trying to do a “selfless” act. Should you defy your own personal values or at least be able to block it to really be selfless?

It is worth noting Machiavelli’s view on human nature: most men were naturally selfish, corrupt, cowardly, faithless, base, dishonest, and violent

So is it possible to find magnanimity, philanthropy, and altruism as a motive to human behavior?

However, taking away the philosophical concepts behind the term, we do actually see numerous selfless incentives all around us.

Personally, the only “selfless” act that really gives me joy is working with people with special needs. They give me motive, drive, and inspiration. When you spend time with them you really do substitute “self” with “other”. You disregard all external environmental factors with the main purpose of helping them.

This, in the philosophical content might not be considered “self-less”, but according to my dictionary it is.

 

So all you self-indulging egotistic immortals, do something selfless every day, and see the difference you make.

 

shamma,

shamma aldabal

shamma aldabal

Trying to understand life. In a constant journey of discovery. Join the crew.

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