Critical Human Philosophy- "Why human beings are so selfish even after they know lives are very short and everybody should commit death one day?"

 Why human beings are so selfish even after they know lives are very short and everybody should commit death one day?

 

People are now-a-days very selfish rather that helpful towards other surrounding depressed people. But have we ever tried to find out the above question that I am seated here to analyze it from different points of views? Actually, the question of why humans remain selfish despite knowing the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death is both profound and complex. It intersects with various fields of inquiry, including psychology, philosophy, and sociology. This analysis seeks to explore the reasons behind human selfishness, considering both the psychological mechanisms at play and the broader existential and social factors involved. Let’s analyze those below:

The Psychological Basis of Selfishness

Evolutionary Perspectives: From an evolutionary standpoint, selfishness can be seen as a survival mechanism. Evolution has favored traits that enhance an individual's chances of survival and reproduction. Early humans lived in environments where resources were scarce and competition was fierce. In such settings, self-preservation and the prioritization of one's own needs would have been advantageous. This ingrained tendency towards selfishness likely persists even in modern contexts where survival is less of a daily struggle.

The Role of Self-Preservation: Psychologically, the instinct for self-preservation extends beyond physical survival to emotional and psychological well-being. People often focus on their own needs and desires because doing so can provide a sense of control and security in an unpredictable world. This self-centered focus is, in part, a response to the anxiety and fear associated with mortality. Knowing that life is finite can lead individuals to seek immediate gratification and personal gain as a way to cope with existential dread.

Cognitive Biases and Heuristics: Human cognition is influenced by a variety of biases and heuristics that reinforce selfish behavior. For example, the "self-serving bias" leads individuals to interpret events in ways that favor their own interests. This bias can result in a skewed perception of how one's actions affect others, making it easier to justify self-centered behavior. Similarly, the "sunk cost fallacy" and "loss aversion" can lead people to prioritize their own gains over collective well-being, even when they are aware of the broader implications.

Philosophical and Existential Considerations:

The Nature of Self and Identity: Philosophically, the concept of the self plays a significant role in understanding selfishness. The self is often seen as the center of one's subjective experience, and this centrality can make self-interest seem more immediate and compelling than the interests of others. Existentialist thinkers argue that the awareness of one's own mortality can lead to a heightened focus on individual experiences and desires, as people grapple with the meaning of their existence.

The Paradox of Mortality: The awareness of mortality can create a paradox where, instead of fostering altruism, it amplifies self-centered behavior. The knowledge that life is fleeting might encourage individuals to prioritize personal enjoyment and fulfillment, driven by a desire to make the most of their limited time. This pursuit of personal satisfaction can overshadow the consideration of others' needs, as the urgency of personal goals becomes more pronounced.

Ethical Theories and Morality: Ethical theories offer different perspectives on selfishness. Utilitarianism, for example, emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number, which might seem to conflict with selfish behavior. However, individuals might rationalize their actions as contributing to a greater good in ways that align with their own interests. Conversely, deontological ethics, which focuses on duties and principles, suggests that moral behavior should transcend personal gain. Despite this, the challenge of consistently acting in accordance with ethical principles can be undermined by the innate tendency towards self-interest.

Social and Cultural Influences:

Socialization and Cultural Norms: Social and cultural factors play a crucial role in shaping behaviors. In many societies, values such as individualism and personal achievement are highly emphasized. These cultural norms can reinforce selfish behavior by rewarding personal success and encouraging competition. As individuals internalize these values, they may become more focused on their own needs and desires, even in the face of their awareness of life's brevity.

Economic Systems and Social Structures: Economic systems and social structures can also contribute to selfishness. Capitalist societies, for instance, often prioritize individual success and wealth accumulation, which can encourage self-centered behavior. The competitive nature of such systems may lead individuals to focus on personal gain rather than collective well-being. Additionally, social inequality and the lack of access to resources can exacerbate selfish behavior, as individuals may feel compelled to prioritize their own interests in order to secure their place in a competitive environment.

Interpersonal Relationships and Social Dynamics: In interpersonal relationships, selfishness can manifest as a way to protect oneself from perceived threats or vulnerabilities. Trust and reciprocity are essential components of healthy relationships, but individuals might struggle with selfish tendencies due to fear of exploitation or disappointment. The complexity of social dynamics, including issues of power and influence, can further complicate the balance between self-interest and the needs of others.

 

 

Now, let’s see how can we address and Mitigate Selfishness by which practices in our daily lives. Let’s discuss shortly below:

Awareness and Reflection: One way to address selfishness is through increased awareness and self-reflection. By understanding the underlying motivations and biases that drive selfish behavior, individuals can work towards more empathetic and altruistic actions. Mindfulness practices and philosophical contemplation can help individuals become more aware of their own biases and the impact of their actions on others.

Cultivating Empathy and Compassion: Cultivating empathy and compassion can also counteract selfish tendencies. By actively seeking to understand and appreciate the perspectives and needs of others, individuals can develop a more balanced approach to their own desires and interests. Educational programs and social initiatives that promote empathy and cooperation can contribute to fostering more altruistic behavior.

Structural Changes: Addressing selfishness on a broader scale may also require structural changes in societal norms and economic systems. Creating environments that emphasize collaboration, shared resources, and collective well-being can help counteract the incentives for selfish behavior. Policies that promote social equity and support for vulnerable populations can also contribute to a more altruistic society.

In conclusion, we can describe that the persistence of selfish behavior despite the awareness of life's brevity and the inevitability of death can be attributed to a complex interplay of psychological, philosophical, and social factors. While selfishness is rooted in evolutionary and cognitive mechanisms, it is also influenced by cultural norms and social structures. By understanding these factors and actively working towards greater empathy and systemic change, individuals and societies can move towards a more balanced and altruistic approach to living. May Almighty creator-Allah help us to play a remarkable role to overcome our selfishness towards His creatures till our lives on earth.