Graham Powell
2007-07-31 08:20:58
I would agree with what some of the others have said, but would phrase it a little differently: many times, we act altruistically to maintain our self-image.
If you think of yourself as good, or heroic, doing things that reinforce that feels good. And if you’re in a group situation where those sorts of actions are expected (i.e. the military, the fire department), then acting in a way that meets with the approval of your peers feels good, too.
Sorry this sounds so insufferably pedantic.
