Benefit And Detriment. (Human Nature)

[rapunzel77]

Originally Posted by ZenitYerkes

I don't believe in the conception of good and evil, no. Why? If I stole the supermarket because I needed bread, it'd be horrible for you and the grocer. But for me, it'd be great, because then I could give some food to my starving family. Is it a bad action, or a good one?

There are shades of grey, especially in this scenario. The thief isn't necessarily doing something wrong since he is trying to feed his family. In desperate times, this is what happens. Of course the question could be raised, how desperate is this man? Is there some other help that he can get so that he doesn't have to steal?

There are objectively evil things out there. For instance, willfully murdering someone I would think is evil. So would rape. In the context of war, it is different though. However, if some killer wants to take an innocent life, that must be declared wrong. So would robbery.

Every single action everyone does is made to achieve a benefit. A better situation. Thus, the subject always tends to act to reach this state; either instinctively or by their own will, either conscious or unconsciously. Also, the means used are which are in detriment.

To a degree this is true.

But how should we keep the proportion then? How egoist should we be, and how altruist?

This is where charity comes in. It is only in charity that one can keep the balance.

So, how should we act then? It is obvious that living together is easier if we have an altruist attitude, but is it necessarily the best option? If so (or if not), why, and how can we encourage people acting this way?

I don't think it must be an either/or situation. One can look after himself/herself and their family while also contributing to the greater good in society and helping others that need it. It does come down to respect, honor, and duty. Above all, it comes down to love. In any society, everyone must do their part to maintain the system. If they do not, then it won't benefit society nor themselves. We are all connected which is why we have to work together. Granted, not everyone can pull their weight. Some are very poor. Others are addicted to drugs or have mental problems or they are homeless. For those who have much, they can give much. Not necessarily in extremely heavy taxes but they can help the less fortunate. We don't discard the homeless and downtrodden. Instead, we are to help them.

I think that by fostering more charity for others then societies can be better.