Full Idea
The endeavour after self-preservation is the primary and only foundation of virtue.
Gist of Idea
All virtue is founded on self-preservation
Source
Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], IV Pr 22)
Book Reference
Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics', ed/tr. White,WH/Stirling,AH [Wordsworth 2001], p.179
A Reaction
This fits in perfectly with modern evolutionary ethics.