This is a decade wherein our world is increasingly shaped by individual ambition and societal divisions, and the balance between noble causes and self-interests often seems fragile, if not outright distorted. The allure of self-interest, particularly in our hyper-connected, consumer-driven age, frequently eclipses the grandeur of idealistic – if not romantic pursuits. And then there are these groups who posture themselves as pro-human rights and community support, but we see them breaking the rules by being violent to immigrants. So – I thought – is it fair to view these two forces—noble causes and self-interest—as irreconcilable? Or, perhaps, do they sometimes share an uneasy, symbiotic relationship?
At first glance, noble causes are pursuits that promise to elevate our society—fighting poverty, advocating for justice, protecting the environment, and so on. These endeavours are inherently collective, demanding sacrifice, empathy, and commitment to something greater than oneself. The people who champion such causes are often lauded for their altruism and willingness to serve the greater good at the expense of their own desires. Their actions, driven by an unyielding belief in a better world, are celebrated as the epitome of moral virtue.
Yet, a closer examination of these noble pursuits often reveals an undeniable overlap with self-interest. It’s tempting to imagine that those who advocate for social change do so purely for the benefit of others, without regard for their own gain. However, history has shown that even the most high-minded figures, from political leaders to social activists, often stand to benefit in ways they may not initially advertise—whether it’s fame, power, or the satisfaction of a personal ideological alignment. The concept of self-interest, often portrayed as a vice, can also be understood as a driving force behind movements for progress. After all, why would anyone be motivated to fight for justice if they didn’t see some personal stake in it, whether preserving personal dignity or hoping for a more equitable future?
When separated from its negative connotations, self-interest can serve as the foundation of a more sustainable, long-lasting commitment to noble causes. The key lies in recognizing that human motivations are complex. A person’s pursuit of self-interest and support for a noble cause need not be mutually exclusive. The alignment of the two may be a source of strength rather than weakness.
Ultimately, the challenge is not to choose between noble causes and self-interest but to find ways to coexist and enrich one another. When met with polarization and cynicism, perhaps the true measure of progress lies not in the purity of one’s intentions but in the pragmatic fusion of noble ideals and personal gain. When these forces work in tandem, they create the possibility for genuine, meaningful change.
But, oh, God! Why am I even writing about this at all? It feels gross and incorrect. You see, noble causes must always be separated from self-interested motives. I still believe in the essential goodness and purity of humans. #Machiavellianism #Utilitarianism #DependenceAffect #ThomasDonaldson
//MBB
By Bella Balisi-Bevilacqua
