Nature of Selfishness: A Primer

Selfishness is regarded as seeking one’s own interest or happiness to the disregard of the well-being of others. It is a pre-requisite for survival for any living being on earth. To be selfish is to be motivated by concern for one’s self-interest. Yet, we all need to have some self-interest. There are many reasons not to be selfish. Research suggests that compassionate, generous people are happier, healthier, more popular, and more successful. This paper introduces the reader to the nature of selfishness.