Is altruism real?

I think everybody is altruistic in a way. The only difference is, we are altruistic for different periods, aged, and in different circumstances. There are our basic needs, food, clothing, shelter, and medicines. Then, it is social needs, like moving with friends, partying. and so on. The last need is being respected by the society. This respect is earned by doing something that will be good for society and gain us recognition.. So altruism is like credit card expenditure that earns you respect points.

It can be true, but it is hard to accomplish by individuals though. For me, there is anything can be possible. Someone might be good enough to be selfless, and dedicate himself or herself to helping other people. But for others, they would do it simply for the name of charity, and they gain the fame for it. So, altruism can be exist, but it is hard to do it.

we are all born with a sinful nature. self is in charge. we can be altristic about what we truly believe in. we may have a cause for example about a disease and we want to help others who have it. we do this by perhaps giving our money to it, volunteering, or helping someone we know who has this. we take a stand for what we really are. this goes beyond our self. our motives may or may not be true for what we do.i know i feel better when i give. when i am selfish, it isn't good. i get more gratification by being a giver. however, my self gets in the way when i want to be given too as well. this is my nature i was born with. i get offended when my wants or needs don't get mey as i would want them too.

The meaning of "renunciation of the self" or self-surrender is the giving-up of all things negative in our lives, such as hatred, jealousy, anger, covetousness, malice, self-seeking which causes human suffering. "Renunciation of the self" does not involved the giving away of the beautiful elements of life, such as love, friendship, patience, joy, faithfulness, temperance, love, charity. These are the elements that makes a person whole, strong, happy and contented. For short it means the giving-up of the lower-self for the attainment of the higher-self. Through "renunciation of the self" one can be assured of the kind of love we call "heavenly existence."

The meaning of "renunciation of the self" or self-surrender is the giving-up of all things negative in our lives, such as hatred, jealousy, anger, covetousness, malice, self-seeking. These are just but some of the many elements in our lives that cause suffering. "Renunciation of the self" does not involved the giving away of the beautiful elements of life, such as love, friendship, patience, joy, faithfulness. These are the elements that make a person whole, strong, happy and contented.

Hmm... I see your point. But see if this makes sense: If the main purpose of doing good is to get that good feeling for yourself, then maybe one could argue that it's not completely selfless. But if the main purpose of doing good really is to serve others, and the good feeling you get for yourself is just an extra, then maybe that is altruism. Does it exist? Maybe. Probably. I expect it's rare. =P

Self can never be excluded. Each one is part of the great mosiac that is life. For the true picture to be seen each self must be seen. We all have the power to choose what we deem important in this world. We all choose how we define ourselves. Is it wrong to define oneself as selfless, helpful, kind, and loving??? I think not. There are people who struggle, scratch, and claw to get get get. The wisdom that the selfless person has discovered is that what you give the world returns and that it is far easier to get by giving. Then, is it a selfish act to give or is it a WISE move??? Your answer defines you. How do you choose to define yourself??? Our every action does just that.