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Altruism Among Human beings.
Introduction
Human beings are prone to be interdependent to each other. The society can prosper when they work together, and this involves some people voluntarily sacrificing their time and resources for the better sake of others. People in better economic positions or those with the upper hand in a situation give a helping hand to those on the other end. This benevolent action among humans where one party partakes a risk for the benefit of another different party is what is referred to as altruism. Altruism can be mutual or one way, depending on the personality of the individuals involved. Some may return the good deed at later dates while others may not be bothered to do the same.
Method
The participants were eight people (3 gentlemen, five ladies) with their ages ranging from 19 to 30 years; four of them residing in the neighborhood and the other half working around the school. All this were subjected to three similar tests at different times. These tests included offering to carry a bag for the participants while walking along the streets, or from class to the main gate or from the car to the living room. Complementing their mode of dressing, fashion design and general appearance was the second test as well as noticing the brands of their particular favorite products.
Makeup and jewelry were a major point of concern to the ladies while the watches and shoe brands were specifically directed to men. The participants were also given a refreshing drink based on their individual preferences. They were then subjected to the same situation, but opposite positions and their reaction and behavior noted.
Data analysis
The test results widely varied. 70% returned the good deeds done to them within 48hrs while the remaining 30% were not bothered and never felt compelled to return the good deeds. An eighth of the total had a behavioral change over time. Starting off compelled but lost interest along the way after realizing the different factors like religion and customs. ¾ of the ladies felt utterly adored when they received compliments about their appearance and would do anything to return the favors given to them. Most men felt flattered with the drinks and would eventually buy lunch or dinner in return. A large percentage offered free rides just in favor of their bags being carried for them. With reference to the data, it can be clearly illustrated that altruism creates bonds among humans through friendship that arises to inseparable relationships.
Write Up
Altruism exists more between people who have some things in common thus have a common ground. This includes religion, culture, bloodline or origin. Due to sharing a basic fundamental factor, people tend to become selfless towards each other caring the more and taking them as one of their own. These people understand each other better and thus are willing to help each other whatever situations they are in. Altruistic people tend to return favors given to them and highly value friendship.
On the other hand, altruism does not exist between people who are egocentric and selfish. These kinds of people have ulterior motives and thus are not self-motivated towards helping others wholeheartedly without expecting anything in return. Some people do not believe in pure altruism thus becomes a setback for its happening,
Grooming alleviates constraints that accompany group living enhancing tolerance, support and team spirit among the humans to conquer competitors according to altruism. Social grooming occupies time that would instead be used for feeding proving that it’s more important to the groomer thus being termed as altruistic behavior. Grooming results in the formation of relationships and alliances that need commitments to be maintained thus over time it becomes a custom hence its behavioral trait’
Conclusion
From data obtained, altruism brings people together creating unity and selflessness. Humans are able to value each other thus are willing to partake dangerous risks for the benefits of others voluntarily. They are able to face challenges together thus conquer them. They can protect themselves against invaders. Altruism boosts ones self-esteem improving the way they look at themselves thus playing a major role in adapting to the different situations and environments.
Works Cited
Jacqueline s.Mattis, Wizdom Powell Hammond, Nyasha Grayman, Meredith Bonacci. “The Social Production of Altruism: Motivations for Caring Action in a low-income Urban Community.” American Journal of Community Psycology (2009): 71-84.