Defining Altruism in Scientific Terms

Altruism is defined as the act of providing aid to another person at a current cost to oneself, emphasizing that sacrifice often comes with long-term evolutionary benefits. This concept differentiates altruism from related notions like selflessness, empathy, and morality, which, while connected, each signify distinct actions and emotions. Empathy involves sharing in another's feelings, whether consciously or unconsciously, often motivating an altruistic response to alleviate distress. The altruistic urge thus reflects an evolved behavior that promotes caregiving in situations akin to caring for vulnerable offspring, underlining its adaptive value for survival and reproductive success.