As I've journeyed through the chapters of my life, my perception of altruism has shifted. It feels increasingly overrated, its influence overstated, its role in the societal ecosystem perhaps overemphasized. Over the past half-decade, I've dipped my toes into the non-profit world, and the experience has been an eye-opener.
Contrary to the pure-hearted generosity we often associate with giving, I've come to observe an intertwined web of personal and institutional motives that color these transactions. Sure, some give selflessly, an act of kindness straight from the heart. However, more often than not, I've noticed that institutions, laden with resources far surpassing an individual's capacity, dispense their contributions guided by political interests.
Don't get me wrong – I don't imply this is solely about securing election victories for political parties. It's about power. Non-profit organizations with millions stashed away in their coffers often maneuver their donations to advance their institutional positioning, to extend their sphere of control – over businesses, political figures, civil society, and media.
This exploration into the non-profit sector naturally prompts the question – what then is the authentic way to do good? What was the original essence of altruism? I believe the fundamental aim of altruism should be to ensure every individual's opportunity to flourish. Altruistic acts are performed with the intention to aid those who, for various reasons, aren't in a position to thrive – be it poverty, illness, or any other stumbling block life may throw.
However, I contend that relying on non-profit donations isn't the most efficient or effective way to foster human flourishing. Often, these organizations lean more towards self-preservation than actual service. So, what then is the path forward? I propose that we focus on reducing the cost of essential goods and services, from education and nutritious food to physical fitness and access to natural spaces. We need to innovate to make these essentials affordable and accessible to all, not just the middle class or the privileged.
This dream of mine is rooted in leveraging advancements in science and technology, supplemented by necessary policy changes. Imagine a world where housing, currently exorbitantly priced, becomes significantly cheaper through innovation in 3D printing or prefabrication. The intent is to cease relying on subsidies for resource provision, and instead focus on enhancing market competition for essential services.
Regulation still plays a crucial role, of course. We need to prevent regulatory capture and ensure fair play. But, the focus should shift from subsidization, which often fosters corruption and unexpected consequences, to nurturing innovation and competition.
Don't get me wrong; I'm not declaring altruism as bad. Selfless acts, performed with no expectation or intention of receiving anything in return, are beautiful. There are individuals so fortunate that they can afford to give without expecting anything in return. This kind of pure altruism is admirable.
But we shouldn't design society around the assumption of altruism. The onus should not be on individuals to act out of pure goodwill.
Instead, our society should pivot towards fostering innovation and ensuring everyone has access to what they need to flourish. This is the North Star I believe we should set our course towards – a society engineered for everyone's potential to thrive, fueled by innovation and access, rather than the inconsistent winds of altruism.