While driving or walking down a city or large town street, chances are good that we will see a homeless person standing on the next corner, in need of financial help or a job. Those who are compassionate are more capable of giving spare change while others carry on with their busy lives. Most would agree that the moral thing to do is reach out and give if you ever had the chance. However, others may look at this opportunity in a different light by assuming that the beggar could be an impostor and actually be a multimillionaire who should give them money instead. Despite this view, altruism should motivate people to give whatever they can at any time. .
Altruism is defined as the principle or practice of unselfish concern for or devotion to the welfare of others (dictionary.com). People who experience altruism are usually affected psychologically. When those who practice it help society in any way, they feel a sense of relief knowing that they committed a moral act. Empathy plays a major role in these acts because it is looked upon as what evokes altruism. However, everyone doesn't agree with showing empathy because it is thought of as giving another pity and looks at it as if it were their experience (Stocks, 649-650). .
It is no secret that much of the world's population lives in poverty today. Giving during this time of need is extremely common. While viewing television programs, ads for donations and foundations are airing more often and people choose to give out of the act of altruism. However, others realize that majority of these foundations are frauds and believe that the donations aren't used to help the less fortunate at all. As a result, they look at the act of giving as a waste of time and money. .
In Rye Barcott's, "It Happened on the Way to War," the author proves how altruism can have a positive outlook on one's life. When Rye decided to go to Kibera, he looked for opportunities to establish peace within the area by talking to leaders and mentors and seeking to develop organizations for the well-being of children.
