COOPERATION

The Importance of Cooperation for Human Existence

Nothing is more crucial than an individual's ability to cooperate with others to sustain their existence. Cooperation is often the only viable solution, particularly in environments where problems need urgent resolution. A meaningful and sustainable society, where risks are minimized, can be built on the foundation of cooperation.

Evolution and Cooperation

Many people believe that the theory of evolution is fundamentally based on selfishness as a biological necessity. It is thought that existence is driven by self-interest and evolves accordingly. While this perspective may seem accurate for achieving short-term goals, the deeper truth is that human existence is fundamentally rooted in cooperation and the moral sentiments that accompany it, which are entirely compatible with biological evolution.

Human beings have evolved not just as isolated individuals but as members of complex social groups. Our capacity for empathy, fairness, and altruism are as much a part of our evolutionary heritage as our survival instincts. These social traits have enabled us to build communities, form alliances, and create systems of mutual support that enhance the survival and well-being of the group, and consequently, the individual.

Rational Social Individuals

We must recognize that we can only sustain our existence within our environment not merely by acting according to our core ego instincts, which serve our interests, but also by functioning as rational social individuals who contribute to a common interest. Throughout history, those who have succumbed to personal ambitions at the expense of the majority's interests have eventually found themselves isolated and have disappeared from the stage.

Individual happiness and prosperity are best achieved by expanding our circle of personal interests to include others. This means incorporating our family, friends, and even complete strangers whose joys and pains might otherwise seem irrelevant to us. When we act in ways that benefit others, we are not just sacrificing our own interests; we are, in fact, securing our own well-being by ensuring the health and stability of the social networks upon which we depend.

Balancing Self-Interest and Altruism

It is a misconception that our self-centered feelings and self-sacrificing actions are always in opposition to each other. We must understand that our primary interest is in the well-being of the people within our social network, starting with our family. By caring for those around us, we create a supportive environment that, in turn, benefits us.

When we feel wronged, our desire to achieve or ensure justice often reaches its peak. While it may seem normal and acceptable to exhibit aggressive and overprotective behavior in such emotional states, the consequences are often destructive and hurtful, even to those we aim to protect. Therefore, we must remember that the foundation of justice is an empathic mindset.

Empathy allows us to understand others' perspectives and needs, fostering a sense of fairness and cooperation. By approaching conflicts and injustices with empathy, we can find solutions that uphold justice while maintaining social harmony.

Conclusion

Cooperation is essential for the survival and prosperity of human beings. It is not enough to act solely based on self-interest; we must also consider the well-being of those around us. By expanding our circle of care to include others, we create a supportive and sustainable society. Balancing self-interest with altruism, guided by empathy, ensures that we not only achieve justice but also maintain the social bonds that are vital for our existence. Through cooperation and empathy, we can build a society where individual and collective well-being are harmoniously aligned.