Altruism
Altruism is the selfless concern for the well-being of others, often prioritizing their needs over one’s own. In normative ethics, it suggests that helping others is a moral duty. Within virtue ethics, altruism is seen as a desirable character trait, embodying kindness and compassion. In consequentialism and utilitarianism, altruistic actions are evaluated based on the outcomes they produce, ideally leading to the greatest happiness for the largest number of people. Essentially, altruism promotes the idea that caring for others is not just kind but ethically significant, impacting moral choices across different philosophical frameworks.
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Altruism is the selfless concern for the well-being of others, often acting to help them without expecting anything in return. It can manifest in various ways, such as volunteering, donating to charity, or simply lending a helping hand to someone in need. Altruistic behavior is seen in both humans and some animals, suggesting it may have evolutionary benefits, fostering cooperation and community. While the motivations behind altruism can vary, its essence lies in prioritizing others' welfare, contributing to social bonds, and enhancing overall societal harmony.