Altruism And Egoism In Anthem By Ayn Rand

Altruism and Egoism

There once lived an altruistic person that loved to helped others. But that altruistic person was also a very egoistic person. Egoism is about the selfishness and the self-interest of human beings, while altruism is more about the selflessness, and the well-being of others. At first sight, egoism and altruism may seem to be two completely different behaviors. But in reality egoism and altruism are just two sides of the same coin. Altruism and egoism are both essential to pave a path to a good life, but egoism seems to be a bigger part of human nature; Ayn Rand had expressed the values of human ego; the pursuit of happiness and the human’s self-interest are considered an egoistic behavior.

In the book “Anthem”, the author, Ayn Rand expresses the importance of individualism and egoism. The book also expresses her hatred for collectivism. Which is somewhat similar to altruism, since collectivism is more about the greater good. Ayn Rand designed the society in “Anthem” to be collectivistic and dystopic. This fictional has

It’s human nature to seek happiness, since it’s one of the “central motivations in life” (Kaufman). Psychologists have found out that people that live happy lives, “is associated with being a ‘taker’” (Smith). Because "Happy people get a lot of joy from receiving benefits from others” (Smith). Which means that these “happy people” are considered selfish people. Because their happiness is based on what they’re getting from the others. People that live happy lives, gets their happiness from satisfying the human desire. Happiness is also related to “Feeling healthy” (Kaufman). It’s also associated with “Feeling good” (Kaufman). Which is why happiness shouldn’t be something to sacrifice. Feeling good and healthy will give humans a good quality life. Happiness is considered an ephemeral moment. But this short-lived moment is what motivates huamns to chase after