Do people do what they perceive is in their best interest?
Yes, one basic trait that aU individuals share is self-interest. We are interested in
protecting our close family and ourselves. Why?
Since natural selection is about survival and reproduction, and individuals either
survive or die and reproduce or not, it makes sense that individuals are predisposed
to act in ways that enhance their own prospects for survival and reproduction. The
ancestral environment consisted of limited resources, including reproductive
resources, and fierce competition. Self-interest came naturally.
What if our ancestors were composed of altruists - individuals that helped
others at their own expense? Altruistic individuals are at a disadvantage. They are
always vulnerable to some mutants that take advantage of them. Altruistic
behavior cannot evolve by natural selection since natural selection favors
individuals that are best at promoting their own survival and reproductive
success. Only behavior that is selfish or for the mutual good is in an individual's
self-interest and therefore favored by natural selection. Some behavior may under
certain conditions look like altruism but can often be explained by self-benefit.
Social recognition, prestige, fear of social disapproval, shame, relief from distress,
avoidance of guilt, a better after-life or social expectations are some reasons
behind "altruistic" acts.
- Seeking wisdom from Darwin to Munger
