@binsrc altruism is an illusion, it doesnt exist. Altruism is just what wer call selfishness done expertly.
@freemo at some level it must exist, civilization prides itself (and manipulates others based) on its altruistic aspects. It seems very important to peoples self-image. There are altruistic acts, taking down a gunman, running in front of a car to save an unknown child... acts that occur spontaneously.
@binsrc none of those acts are altruistic. You do it for many reasons such as to avoid guild, the happiness and pleasure from doing the good deed, and the praise and honor you receive from the community in doing so.
Altruism is simply an illusion, something we tell ourselves because it feels good.