Be warned that if you wish, as I do, to build a society in…
“Be warned that if you wish, as I do, to build a society in which individuals cooperate generously and unselfishly towards a common good, you can expect little help from biological nature. Let us try to teach generosity and altruism, because we are born selfish.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human nature is inherently selfish, so societies must teach generosity rather than rely on biology.
In simple terms: People are naturally selfish; we must learn to be generous.
Key Takeaway
Teach altruism to counteract innate selfishness.
Themes
psychology
society
ethics
education
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- schools
- corporate culture
- public policy
- family upbringing
Key Concepts
evolutionary biology
social learning
Questions to Reflect On
- What methods best foster genuine generosity?
- Can innate selfishness be fully overcome?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep-rooted selfishness is difficult and slow.