Tuesday, February 19, 2008
ALTRUISM PROMOTED
Yesterday I took a look at Ayn Rand's rejection of altruism, as it has been adopted by Austrian economics, a system that has impacted American economics.
Providing an opposing viewpoint is Bnei Baruch, an Orthodox Jewish organization that promotes Kabbalah. They believe
Even though today’s society is egoistic, it is quite prepared to advance toward following Nature’s law of altruism. Education and culture have always been established on altruistic principles. In our homes and at school, we teach our children to be compassionate, kind, friendly. We want our children to be nice to others, and we feel that such an attitude toward others is the proper way, and that it protects those who follow it. Hardly anyone would declare opposition to these values.
"Quite prepared"? No, I don't think we are quite prepared given the influence of these major economic think tanks. Nor do I agree that "Education and culture have always been established on altruistic principles" based just on the influence of Austria economics alone. Alan Greenspan was a propnent of Ayn Rand. Consider the influence that just this one man alone has had on our culture. As to altruism being natural, consider the inclinations of the little child. Children must be taught to share. It doesn't come naturally.
Do we feel that being nice to others is the proper way? When it comes to religious differences, being nice is what has brought us to the brink of denying Christ. We probably believe in being nice until it impacts our own personal economics. Where our dollars and personal possessions are concerned, we are not even remotely nice unless we are influenced by Christianity. It appears that Bnei Baruch believes the Kabbalah has the same influence.
As with most things both selfishness and altruism need to be kept in balance. We have a legitimate right to own property and to hold it for our exclusive use. Collectivism has proven to be unworkable in the Soviet Union. At the same time we must not ignore the plight of our neighbor. Charity is a more workable solution than a welfare state. It hinges on the majority being generous. Choosing to be charitable surpasses in satisfaction having our property confiscated and given to others. Dependence on charity generates industry in at least some who would otherwise chose to live off the dole under government mandated social programs. Charity does not have a built-in welfare mentality.
When either attitude becomes dominant, we find ourselves living in circumstances that are difficult.
