Evoldahc On Egoism

1. "We are all here on earth to help others. What I can't figure out is what the others are here for." - W. H. Auden. Discuss.

I believe that from an egoist point of view, this statement  simply means that there is no sense in doing deeds that would serve the benefit of others. Egotistical people believe that they should serve no one but the self.  With the statement above, egoists would argue that if we are to help "others," then the "others" would end up depending on those who helped them. This should not be the case because egoists believe that it is unfair to the self if we help others especially if the benefit that we get from helping is less than that of those who helped. In an egoist preference, the self should have more if not all the benefits from a certain act.

2. Ethical egoists think that people will be happiest if they look out for themselves and not concern themselves with others but is this where true human happiness lies? Discuss. 

I believe that this is not true. Furthermore, I believe this is wrong. Wrong because in my own opinion true human happiness is not just about what's good for the self regardless of others but it is for the good of ones self and that of others. True human happiness, knowing that we are rational beings, is achieved only and only through the correct practice of our rationality in judging and understanding the goodness of our actions in the pursuit of happiness. In this sense, using our reasons in determining what is good and gives happiness will always involve thinking not only about our self but of others too. If we deviate from this, like ethical egoists do, then we are bound to fail in achieving true human happiness which entails reason/rationality in its pursuit.

3. What are the roots of egoism? Where does it come from? What do egotistical people FEAR?????

The concept of egoism is rooted in the tradition of Greek hedonism. The ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus asserted that our life's aim should be fulfilling our moral obligation to pursue pleasure and avoid pain.

The sources of egoism are instincts, psychic heritage, received from biological ancestors, which would perish with the species if not passed on in the course of evolution.

Put simply, egotistical people fear anything that would cause harm or damage their ego or self.