Psychological Egoism – TLDR by Mockingloris

TLDR: Psychological Egoism

Think of egoism like a single-threaded algorithm assuming all actions optimize for self. Altruism suggests a multi-threaded model where some processes prioritize others’ well-being. Data from user behavior (empathy-driven actions) and system design (evolutionary efficiency) supports a hybrid model—humans aren’t just “selfish” codebases.

Debated since Hobbes, it’s challenged by:

  - Butler’s Stone: Pleasure is a byproduct, not the goal.
  - Science: Biology (altruism aids survival), neuroscience (motivation ≠ pleasure), and psychology (empathy drives genuine care) suggest mixed motives.
  - Analogy: Egoism is a single-threaded “selfish” algorithm; altruism adds threads for others’ benefit. Data leans toward a hybrid model.

Whenever I dive into a creative project, whether it’s freelancing for a client or tinkering on my own stuff, I know exactly what’s coming. The dopamine hit from shipping code is unreal, like a high from solving a puzzle that’s been nagging me for days. The rep boost, the financial payoff (or potential for my own projects).

But deep down, it’s not just about me. Crafting something that users love or that makes their lives easier? That’s the real magic. It’s a mix of selfish thrill and selfless impact, like a perfectly balanced commit.