Is being selfish a natural trait in all of us?

[Vesuvius87]

My mother was watching a video about a millionaire that gave some of his money to help a poor in need.

Meanwhile my mother would spend the money on a brand new car, vacation and other luxuries, my idea is different. I told her that if I were rich, it would be spend on useful purpose in the community instead of expensive things for myself. Those things mean nothing when you die anyways. Besides why do you even need expensive stuff just for being rich?

My mother's reply was mocking me (she laughed) and saying ''and who helps you anyways, does anyone give you money or something'' but my reply was an ''It's not about who helps me, it's not about wanting for something in return but rather feeling good about my myself for making a difference, that I had the chance to help, to spend it on something useful and nothing on worthless materials for myself''.

[Anonymous]

It is a normal instinct in humans but some push past it. The millionaire donated some not all of his money.


If I was wealthy and had that sort of money I would help my friends and family financially. I’d probably purchase/build up some properties and rent that at an affordable rate (rental costs have skyrocketed where I am $1500+ for a studio apt and that’s low). Looking from your moms perspective though she’s spent her life putting her money towards other things like children and their needs other household items so it’s okay to want to be selfish every once in a while. So for her to want to spoil herself I get it; don’t necessarily agree with it but I get it

[Vesuvius87]

Yes it's important to have savings for yourself too. I would also be helping my family and using it to build a business. Then help others too.
I just don't agree with spoiling yourself with luxuries though. For instance I don't need to buy a $300+ pair of shoes when a cheaper $50 works good too.

[Opinion Owner]

I agree with the shoes, but a new car, or a new mattress I can understand. Things that will improve your quality of life.

[BLP11520]

It certainly is but we should grow out of it

[Vesuvius87]

It would be a better world if more people were taught altruism.

[BLP11520]

Right

[JohnK123]

I think so

how r u?

[eagle1951]

not in all of us only in some of us

[Vesuvius87]

True. It's sad to think about just your yourself and the good stuff money can get you. For the longest I've wondered why do you need an expensive car or house just because you're rich when you can still have a normal house and average car that works good?

[eagle1951]

yep i don't understand it, but I don't understand mean people

[Anonymous]

Honestly, I think it is to some degree.

[Vesuvius87]

Real altruism is hard in people I guess. If you're helping just to get a reward that's not really helping.

[na123345]

How it feels like that

[jahaims]

Nope

[tedbuoyy]

Hey can I DM you

[Vesuvius87]

Ok...

[tedbuoyy]

Can you message me I am not able to

[Vesuvius87]

I've just send you a message. I'm working now but I'll reply when I get a chance.