From: Jerry Mitchell (cosmicv@tampabay.rr.com)
Date: Thu Jan 24 2002 - 17:18:57 MST
>>
>> Yes, this is a silly topic of conversation...
>
>Rational altruism? Why would it be? I've often considered starting a
>third mailing list devoted solely to that.
>
Hi all, I have been lurking from the sidelines for a while, watching all the
great info being passed here, but thought I might be able to ask a question
here that someone could answer, and maybe clarify it for myself and others.
Why is altruism even a virtue?
What have others done to garner the results of my efforts?
Why am I not deserving of my attention, effort, and being a self-sufficient
reason for existing?
If a man were on a deserted isle, his purpose and philosophy should be quite
simple and obvious. Being in a civilization of billions doesnt change man's
basic nature or relationship to reality. Trying to live through others and
for others doesnt appeal to me or seem rational at all. Remember, the
greatest crimes in history was done in the name of altruism, sacrifice, and
immolation of the self on the altar of the "greatest good". Need I point to
Russia, China, and other socialistic countries that tried to destroy egoism
in the name of altruism? Im sure Ill get a response back that it wasnt
altruism they were practicing, Ive included a quote or 2 below that should
make certain leaders intentions clear and show the exact definition of
altruism they were working toward.
To tell the truth, I think the future will be all about anarcho-capitalism,
but thats to be seen.
"It is thus necessary that the individual should come to realize that his
own ego is of no importance in comparison with the existence of his nation;
that the position of the individual ego is conditioned solely by the
interests of the nation as a whole ... that above all the unity of a
nation's spirit and will are worth far more than the freedom of the spirit
and will of an individual. .... This state of mind, which subordinates the
interests of the ego to the conservation of the community, is really the
first premise for every truly human culture .... we understand only the
individual's capacity to make sacrifices for the community, for his fellow
man." (Adolph Hitler, 1933)
"This state of mind, which subordinates the interests of the ego to the
conservation of the community, is really the first premise for every truly
human culture....By this we understand only the individual's capacity to
make sacrifices for the community, for his fellow men." -- Adolf Hitler --
Oct. 7, 1933
"The man who speaks to you of sacrifice, speaks of slaves and masters. And
intends to be the master." (Ayn Rand)
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