Altruism vs. Prosocial behavior: There are several theories that attempt to expl

Question

Altruism vs. Prosocial behavior:
There are several theories that attempt to explain why people help others. Egoistic
models suggest that people help when is in their best interests to help, either because
the benefits outweigh the costs. In contrast, altruistic models suggest that people help
when they feel a sense of empathy for those in need, and suggests that helping is
motivated by altruistic tendencies rather than an analysis of rewards and costs. Reflect
on your thoughts, feelings and behaviors before, during and after the service learning
event that you attended. Are these thoughts feelings and behaviors more consistent
with an egoistic model or an altruistic model of helping? Why?

Explanation / Answer

My personal experiences with helping appear to be more consistent with the egoistic model. I have found that whenever I am motivated to help others, I can ultimately trace its origins to the personal benefits that I expect to obtain, directly or indirectly, from doing so. This may be in the form of attaining social approval for my behavior or a personal sense of pride resulting from the act. I am unsure if the egoistic model can be generalized to humanity in general, but I do think that most people than not help others for their own personal gains.

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