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![]() | Altruism by James R. Ozinga ISBN-10: 9780275967352 ISBN-10: 0-275-96735-2 ISBN-13: 9780275967352 ISBN-13: 978-0-275-96735-2 Hardcover 1999-12-30 Praeger Publishers Find Lowest Price | |
Editorials | ||
Product Description Altruism, understood as doing something for someone else at some cost to oneself, is contrasted with selfishness. Ozinga argues convincingly that altruism is a natural part of human nature that it is not just found in a few rare people-- that it has evolutionary value and is exhibited in some manner by everyone. Nonetheless, most people seem to feel that selfishness rules human behavior. Altruism is considered an environmental addition to the human character, often seen as naivete. Ozinga attacks this view by examining the probable source of altruism--in the genes, in the concept of natural law, or in the instinct for social behavior. Various barriers to altruism are explored in the chemistry of a person, in terms of organized religions or ideologies, and in the goals people choose. Altruism, as Ozinga shows, is a multi-dimensional concept that can be understood and appreciated as a vital part of human nature. | ||
Reviews | ||
Altruism Hits the Backwoods of Mississippi Some parts of this book made me cry and some made me laugh, but the whole book brought some more truth into my life. Thank you, Mr. Ozinga for a great read!! | ||
A fantastic, thoroughly enjoyable read... I picked up this book from the Seattle library. I can't speak to the purchase price. However, Altuism is one of the most enjoyable books I have read. Ozinga explores the subject, from social altruism (Serfdom, Communism), to biological altruism (survival gene, self-sacrifice of organisms). He sites hisorical, scientific examples, and builds them through chapters, to a common sense conclusion, "tolerence". This book was an engrossing ride. | ||
Falling in love with a book I do not have enough time to write all that I should on this volume, but, suffice it to say, it is filled with wit, intelligence and insight. I heartily recommend it to everyone. | ||