is there ever a purely altruistic motive?

[datasuspect]

Poll question: is there ever a purely altruistic motive?

[idgiehkt]

1. if it's stated as such

then no.

[asthmaticeog]

2. Oh, HELL no.

[Joe Fields]

3. yes, but rarely...

[MissMillie]

4. if you knew my parents you would say "yes"

I'm very lucky!

[datasuspect]

7. at first glance, i could say that about my mom

but she is kind to me, because she loves me, and in showing me that kindness, i think it might make her feel better in some ways.

still, i won't complain!

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

5. Only if done anonymously. (nt)

[datasuspect]

6. are you talking about "chest beaters" who broadcast

every little good thing they do?

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

8. Preee-cisely.

It ain't altruistic if you're doing it for recognition. The only true altruism is donating anonymously to a cause that doesn't directly benefit you.

[montanto]

9. Doesn't that still make

you feel better, which is a desire for improved self image because of the act of giving? Or an act of ego?, which isn't altruistic?

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

10. I don't think so.

Perhaps it would make you feel a little better, but it's the absolute minimum you could possibly get out of doing anything. If there's a word for altruism at all, it has to apply to something.

[montanto]

11. Right, its just always puzzled me.

Whether there is any such thing as a "free gift," you know, and whether altruism comes in degrees.