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> That runs entirely counter to human nature. Not so. Tribal societies inherently function on everyone in the tribe working for the overall good rather than th
by rndmize 10y ago
> That runs entirely counter to human nature.
Not so. Tribal societies inherently function on everyone in the tribe working for the overall good rather than their individual gain. Socially, this is how we function by default - people will make sacrifices, extend loans, give gifts, and generally help out those close to them (family, friends, tribe members) without an expectation of something in return.
- robryan 10y agoYes, in small groups such as tribes. There is reciprocal altruism at play, where helping other members of the group can reasonably expected to be repaid in future, so it can be a win win. In our modern world it is often going to be the case that you won't deal with the same people again, or the transaction is completed completely impersonally.
- AndrewUnmuted 10y agoWhen I extend a loan to a friend, I do it because I value the relationship with that friend more than the timely receipt of payment. This is a selfish action on my part, is it not?