Should we all be ‘altruistic’? And if so, why?

Some observations from me on this ever-fascinating subject over at Commentator:

Think too about the force of a morality founded in self-respect and free trade between free people. What’s the alternative? The beggar says: “I exist, and I have misfortune. Please give me money, even though I’ll do nothing for you in return.”

What do you do to such people by tossing some money to them? Do you promote their self-reliance and thus their self-respect? If some prissy Leftist appears telling you that basic morality compels you to help the beggar or else, does that not make you a slave – and the sly beggar the master?

Conclusion? Give away as much or as little of your wealth and energy as you like. Help elderly people across the road, if they ask for help. No-one compels you to be a selfish hoarder. If you have some good fortune, why not share it if that’s what you like doing? Be generous in spirit and deed.

But note that generosity has many forms, including commitment and creativity. Don’t let others define for you the form and limits of your generosity. And, above all, remember where any wealth comes from: