Volunteerism and Altruism

Altruism is when someone or a group of people helps others without any trade or commerce. The reason why this happens, may confound those who strictly adhere to the "survival of the fittest" Darwinism theory. Rene Dubois had theorized that helping each other ensures the survival of our race, and it proves our humanity. Whether you can agree with Dubois or not if humanity is only what we can claim as a species, it gives us some insight into why we help out.

Albert Ellis, psychologist, recommends selfish altruism. He says we should only help in areas that we like to help, an activity we find enjoyable. I think it's a great idea because of high levels of burnout and resentment. This is why it's important in volunteer positions such as advocates, volunteer hot line workers, and other direct volunteer people must like their position.

There are some positions in life people sign up for that, as said before, don't make evolution survivor ship sense. For instance, to help someone who is terminal or even perhaps highly contagious such as helping leprosy. The reason for this is because people maybe trying to work out conflicting schemas of something esoteric as the meaning of life. The motivation factor is empathy & sublimation. The first term is ones ability to visualize if they were in the person's place, and the latter is a coping mechanism.

Tocqueville had said community participation is key to a true democracy. The government would be considered a covert fascist state if we don't pay attention. On the other hand we must be accountable for our part and role in our community. The cliche "ask not what you do for your country can do for you, but what you do for your country" speaks to this role. This is probably why its mandated to have participation in government in high school to graduate.

I remember Bill Clinton had started the Americorps program early in his presidential career. It was a clever idea, because more and more crucial positions. in this country don't pay much and needed more talent and time. The bright students out of high school could chooses the option to gain experience right after they graduate. The college students can waive loan fees while they are in the program They can gain experience and get better jobs to pay their loans back.

Volunteerism can help one establish his or herself in the community. The community in turn is a vital support system for all human needs. The person will have more political power over their needs. So increasing volunteerism only creates a symbiotic ecosystem, and is beneficial to all.

Works Cited

Monroe, K.R. (1996). Heart of altruism: Perceptions
of a common humanity. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.

Voluntary Associations. (2001). In World of Sociology,
Gale. Retrieved December 06, 2007, from http://www.credoreference.com.library.esc.edu/entry/4786001