Single Idea 4185

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / B. Value / 2. Values / f. Altruism]

Full Idea

If we observe an altruistic action the simplest explanation and the essential character of the person's conduct is that they make less distinction than is usually made between themselves and others.

Clarification

'Altruism' is self-sacrifice

Gist of Idea

Altruistic people make less distinction than usual between themselves and others

Source

Arthur Schopenhauer (The World as Will and Idea [1819], IV.66)

Book Reference

Schopenhauer,Arthur: 'The World as Will and Idea', ed/tr. Berman,Jill and David [Everyman 1995], p.234


A Reaction

Obvious, really, but Schopenhauer is talking about the will. Is the effacement of the Self desirable, apart from the benefit it might bring to other people. I don't find it appealing.