Altruism is when people act for the well-being or happiness of others without expecting a reward. It\u2019s a recognized phenomenon in humans but has been observed to some degree in other species, such as monkeys and insects. Altruism is also known as selflessness, and it\u2019s a valued trait in many cultures. In this article, we\u2019ll explore the definition of altruism, five facts everyone should know, and examples of altruistic behaviors.<\/p>\n
Altruism is a selfless, voluntary action typically driven by compassion or empathy for others. There are several forms of altruism, which are performed without an expectation of personal gain or recognition. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n When people perform selfless acts for the benefit of others, they\u2019re engaging in altruism.<\/p>\n The origins of altruism could be rooted in human evolution. Because we\u2019re a social species, we do best when living in close community with others. Caring for each other is proven to strengthen relationships and reduce conflict, so by behaving altruistically, ancient humans improved their communities’ chances of long-term health and survival. This biology-driven theory of altruism is just one of many theories, as altruism has been studied in other fields such as science, philosophy, sociology and so on.<\/p>\n The term \u201caltruism\u201d was likely coined by Auguste Comte, a French philosopher who is often called \u201cthe father of sociology.\u201d<\/a> Born in the late 18th century, Comte developed the theory of \u201cpositive philosophy,\u201d which posited that a combination of logic, math and sensory experiences could help people understand human relationships and behavior. For Comte, altruism, which he defined as \u201cliving for others,\u201d was a vital part of living an ethical life and creating a good world. Empathy and altruism are not the same. While empathy often leads to altruism, it\u2019s a cognitive and emotional trait. Altruism refers to behavior. Altruism can also be motivated by a sense of moral duty or a desire to serve the greater good; people don\u2019t need to feel empathy to be altruistic.<\/p>\n Altruism is a simultaneously fascinating and bewildering phenomenon that philosophers, scientists, sociologists and others have studied for years. Here are the five facts everyone should know:<\/p>\n At its core, altruism is about doing good things without expecting a reward, but there are different types. Experts have identified four main categories<\/a>: kin, reciprocal, cultural group and pure. Kin altruism is directed toward family members and friends, and while there\u2019s no guaranteed benefit, it often occurs because tight-knit communities frequently help each other. Reciprocal altruism is similar as it consists of trading altruistic acts back and forth. You help someone, but there\u2019s an understanding that they are likely to help you in return at some point. Cultural group altruism is altruism that occurs within the same ethnic and\/or social groups, while pure altruism is performed knowing there\u2019s no benefit to yourself.<\/p>\n You may have heard the term \u201ceffective altruism\u201d floating around, but what does it mean? Read our article to <\/em>learn more<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n Altruism refers to actions done without expectation of reward or praise, but there are benefits to seemingly \u201cselfless\u201d acts. According to research, altruistic feelings and behaviors are connected to greater well-being, better health and a longer life<\/a>. There are a handful of reasons, such as stronger community ties. When people are altruistic, they bond better with others, which has been shown time and time again to improve mental and even physical health. Research also shows that helping others releases chemicals like dopamine and serotonin<\/a> in the brain. This phenomenon is called \u201cthe helper\u2019s high.\u201d<\/p>\n Scientists have studied animals for years trying to learn how (and if) altruism occurs outside of the human species. There has been some evidence, especially for animals within the same groups. As an example, insects like ants and bees frequently sacrifice their lives for members of the colony. However, as an article in the Guardian explains, these creatures<\/a> are most likely not driven by empathy or compassion. They have an evolutionary drive to protect the colony, and if sacrificing themselves accomplishes that, they\u2019ll do it without any emotion attached to the action. Therefore, while altruism is present in other species, human altruism seems to be distinct.<\/p>\n Does the altruism of one person make a difference? It does for that specific situation, but research suggests helping others is contagious. This is because humans influence each other, and seeing someone else act generously encourages others<\/a> to do the same. According to one study, a single act of kindness tripled in value because others gave more afterward. In the long term, altruism becomes more normalized, and because humans naturally want to live in connection and community with one another, altruism can become a societal norm.<\/p>\n Participating in Giving Tuesday, which is celebrated on the first Tuesday after American Thanksgiving, is a good way to practice altruism. Check out our article to <\/em>learn more<\/em><\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n If altruism has so many benefits and serves a biological need for connection and community, can altruism really exist? Some philosophers and psychologists believe there is no such thing as \u201ctrue\u201d altruism <\/a>because, at the very least, your brain rewards you. However, a person\u2019s intent should matter, as well. If you aim to help others without expecting a reward, the act shouldn\u2019t stop being altruistic because of a chemical reaction you can\u2019t control. It\u2019s also extremely challenging to fully understand a person\u2019s motives when they do something nice for others. Even those who act altruistically may never know their true motivations. The question of whether true altruism is real is an enduring mystery.<\/p>\nWhat is altruism and where does it come from? <\/strong><\/h2>\n
What should everyone know about altruism? <\/strong><\/h2>\n
#1. There are different types of altruism<\/strong><\/h3>\n
#2. There are benefits to altruism <\/strong><\/h3>\n
#3. Animals can exhibit altruistic behaviors (but there\u2019s a catch) <\/strong><\/h3>\n
#4. Altruism may be contagious<\/strong><\/h3>\n
#5. Some people think there\u2019s no such thing as true altruism <\/strong><\/h3>\n