Description
Altruism, understood as doing something for someone else at some cost to oneself, is contrasted with selfishness. Ozinga argues convincingly that altruism is a natural part of human nature that it is not just found in a few rare people- that it has evolutionary value and is exhibited in some manner by everyone. Nonetheless, most people seem to feel that selfishness rules human behavior. Altruism is considered an environmental addition to the human character, often seen as naivete.
Ozinga attacks this view by examining the probable source of altruism-in the genes, in the concept of natural law, or in the instinct for social behavior. Various barriers to altruism are explored in the chemistry of a person, in terms of organized religions or ideologies, and in the goals people choose. Altruism, as Ozinga shows, is a multi-dimensional concept that can be understood and appreciated as a vital part of human nature.
Examines why altruism exists and what the physical and psychological origins an evolutionary value of altruism might be.
About the Author
JAMES R. OZINGA is Professor of Political Science at Oakland University./e He has written six books dealing with political philosophy and East-Central European government and politics.
Book Information
ISBN 9780275967352
Author James Ozinga
Format Hardback
Page Count 192
Imprint Praeger Publishers Inc
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
