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Do you believe that most people act according to their own self-interest? Is acting only according to your self-interest a good strategy in life? (mander.xyz)

submitted 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) by gay_sex@mander.xyz to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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An argument can be made that all actions people take are for their own self-interest. Even things like helping the community is done for reciprocal benefits for yourself plus the general increase in respect.

Another point is that if all people just act for their own self-interest, they will have a better life themselves, and if everyone does the same, some sort of proper balance will be achieved.

I have been having some occasional discussions with my friends over this. I personally disagree, but would love to hear what others have to say. Feel free to discuss!

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[–] plactagonic@sopuli.xyz 5 points 4 days ago (1 children)

If you look at it from the political side that this is the basic idea of liberal democracy.

Everyone votes in their best interest and especially in proportional representation you get some compromise of the interests.

Right now at least in politics people act less in their own interest but more of what they emotionally feel like their interest.

[–] interdimensionalmeme@lemmy.ml 2 points 4 days ago

Actually voting itself is against your best interest as the bebefit of your vote is so minuscule that it does not warrant the severe disruption of voting.