The Illusion of Altruism
We live in a world where kindness, compassion and helping others are valued. We are taught to be "good" - to share, to support, to love selflessly. But if we remove these social "masks", will there remain behind them someone who is truly capable of wishing happiness for another just like that, without expecting anything in return - not even good feelings in return?

The desire for good for one's neighbor is often disguised as altruism, but at the same time it is rooted in our own desire to feel good, needed, loved. Yes, even love is not always about the "other", but often about how this "other" makes us feel.

Are children an exception?
Perhaps the only people we are truly capable of wishing good to unconditionally are children. But even here, things are not so simple. Caring for a child is a continuation of caring for ourselves, for our own genes, for our meaning in life. We see ourselves reflected in them, our “eternity.” So, here too, good is essentially extended egoism?

And what about friendship?
Many consider friendship to be the highest form of selfless relationships. But it also often involves convenience, common interests, and emotional benefits. As soon as these benefits disappear, so does the friendship. Of course, there are exceptions. But aren’t they rare because we value them so much?

Does this mean that we are bad?
No. It means that we are alive. Honest reflections on egoism are not a reason for guilt, but an opportunity to better understand ourselves and others. Egoism is not necessarily hostile. It is the basis of self-preservation, development, and even love — when it is conscious and does not turn into sacrifice.

What if we try differently?
Perhaps the honest admission: “I want good for myself, and if I can, I will share it with you” is more honest than “I live for you.” Paradoxically, by starting with caring for ourselves, we often become able to care for others - sincerely, without claims and manipulation.