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The Drive For Altruism Is Hardwired

Dekortage writes "The Washington Post is reporting on recent neuroscience research indicating that the brain is pre-wired to enjoy altruism — placing the interests of others ahead of one's own. In studies, '[G]enerosity activated a primitive part of the brain that usually lights up in response to food or sex... Altruism, the experiment suggested, was not a superior moral faculty that suppresses basic selfish urges but rather was basic to the brain, hard-wired and pleasurable.' Such research 'has opened up a new window on what it means to be good,' although many philosophers over recorded history have suggested similar things."

7 of 582 comments (clear)

  1. So... by Normal+Dan · · Score: 5, Funny

    what they are saying is people are only generous because it feels good. That is, if it did not give them that feel good feeling, they would not be generous. Thus, everyone is generous for their own selfish purposes. Ergo, everyone is 100% selfish.

    Go ahead, try to follow my logic. I dare you.

    --
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  2. First post by Teddy+Beartuzzi · · Score: 4, Funny

    Well, I wasn't, but that's because it gave me more pleasure for someone else to get it.

  3. Superior Being by ATestR · · Score: 4, Funny

    It is thus logical that a truly superior human will learn to abandon any primitive altruistic tendencies.

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    âoeAny society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve neither and lose both.
  4. Re:altruism by gEvil+(beta) · · Score: 4, Funny

    The principle or practice of unselfish concern for or devotion to the welfare of others. For those that didnt know.

    Since you didn't post this as an AC I think we all know where you stand. : p

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    This guy's the limit!
  5. Following your logic... by Nymz · · Score: 4, Funny

    what they are saying is people are only generous because it feels good. That is, if it did not give them that feel good feeling, they would not be generous. Thus, everyone is generous for their own selfish purposes. Ergo, everyone is 100% selfish.
    Go ahead, try to follow my logic. I dare you.

    If I want to give money to a charity, that's selfish, but by denying my selfish desire and refusing to give to charity, I become altruistic.
  6. It doesn't work by PPH · · Score: 4, Funny

    I've tried that bit about generosity being as pleasurable as sex, but the hookers still insist on cash in advance.

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    Have gnu, will travel.
  7. Re:If you're getting brain activity... by moderatorrater · · Score: 5, Funny

    No...No, you don't...Wrong...Wrong again... Wow, I never thought of it that way. Thank you, you changed my life with that amazing revelation!