Altruism is a fascinating psychological concept that is closely related to empathy, solidarity and generosity. It refers to the innate tendency that some people have to act for the benefit of others, without expecting a personal reward in return. Throughout history, it has been observed that people with fewer economic resources tend to be more altruistic than those with greater privileges. This phenomenon has aroused the interest of researchers and psychology scholars, who have tried to understand the reasons behind this apparent paradox.
The relationship between economic resources and altruism
1. Self-interest theory
One of the explanations proposed to understand why people with fewer resources are more altruistic is based on the self-interest theory. According to this perspective, people with greater economic privileges tend to be more individualistic and focus on the search for their own benefit, since they have the necessary means to satisfy their needs and desires without depending on others.
On the other hand, those people who find themselves in a situation of economic scarcity tend to be more empathetic and supportive, since they have experienced firsthand the difficulties and deprivations that a lack of resources entails. This experience of vulnerability allows them to better understand the suffering of others and act selflessly to help those who are in a similar situation.
2. Sense of community and cooperation
Another possible explanation is related to the sense of community and cooperation that develops in low-resource environments. When people are forced to share limited resources and face common challenges, they tend to strengthen bonds of solidarity and mutual support. In these circumstances, altruism becomes a survival and social cohesion mechanism that allows the community to face adversity and overcome obstacles together.
Therefore, people who live in contexts of poverty or lack tend to value more the importance of mutual help and collaboration, which translates into a higher level of altruism and generosity towards others. This predisposition to work as a team and support each other can encourage altruistic behavior at both an individual and collective level.
Psychological factors that influence altruism
1. Empathy and compassion
Empathy and compassion are two fundamental psychological skills that influence a person's predisposition towards altruism. Empathy involves the ability to put yourself in another's shoes, understand their emotions and needs, and respond sensitively to their suffering. On the other hand, compassion refers to the internal motivation to help others who are in need.
People who experience high levels of empathy and compassion are often more likely to act altruistically, as they feel a deep emotional connection with those who suffer and wish to alleviate their pain or provide support. In the case of those people who have experienced situations of economic scarcity, it is likely that they develop greater sensitivity towards the difficulties of others and a greater willingness to help to the best of their ability.
2. Personal values and beliefs
Personal values and beliefs also play an important role in the manifestation of altruism. People who prioritize solidarity, social justice, and equality are often more inclined to take altruistic actions to benefit others. These ethical and moral values act as internal guides that guide people's decisions and behaviors, promoting generosity and collaboration as ways to contribute to the common well-being.
In the case of people with fewer economic resources , they may have internalized values such as mutual help, reciprocity, and social responsibility, due to the experiences of solidarity and support they have received from their community. These values can enhance their willingness to be altruistic and actively contribute to improving the lives of those around them.
Impact of altruism on society
1. Strengthening social cohesion
Altruism plays a fundamental role in strengthening social cohesion and building more resilient and supportive communities. When people commit to helping each other, sharing resources, and collaborating in finding solutions to common problems, an environment of trust and reciprocity is created that promotes the well-being of all members of society.
In this sense, altruism not only benefits those who receive help, but also those who provide their support selflessly. The satisfaction and sense of fulfillment gained from contributing positively to the well-being of others can strengthen the sense of identity and belonging to the community, promoting a sense of shared responsibility and collective commitment.
2. Reducing social inequalities
Altruism can also play an important role in reducing social inequalities and promoting distributive justice. When people with greater economic resources actively collaborate in helping and supporting those who have less, opportunities are generated to reduce disparities and provide equitable opportunities for the development and well-being of all members of society.
In addition, altruism can contribute to the creation of networks of solidarity and mutual assistance that allow people to overcome crisis or emergency situations more effectively and quickly. Collaboration and teamwork in times of difficulty can generate a positive impact on the resilience and recovery capacity of the community as a whole.
Conclusions
In summary, the People with fewer economic resources tend to be more altruistic due to a combination of psychological, social and cultural factors that influence their predisposition to help others. Empathy, solidarity, ethical values and the experience of scarcity are some of the elements that can enhance altruism in contexts of vulnerability and limitations.
Altruism not only benefits the people who receive help, but also contributes to strengthening social cohesion, reducing inequalities and promoting a more just and supportive society. Encouraging the development of altruistic attitudes and encouraging collaboration and generosity among people, regardless of their economic resources, can be key to building a more empathetic, inclusive and sustainable world for all.