The amount of the population that doesn't comprehend being altruistic or being selfless never ceases to amaze me but it really shouldn't if you are incapable of imagining something then you cannot believe in it. But until the majority of the worlds population understands this the species is doomed to extinction. I just can't imagine not understanding this naturally.
There's no such thing as altruism.
This is a useful primer http://www.humantruth.info/altruism.html but there's lots more social science, evolutionary psychology research if you prefer 'proper' papers and articles.
Its a bit of a downer but once you come to terms with this, its actually quite liberating.
Hmm... I understand the logical argument and I could advocate either side of the argument. However, so called 'altruistic; or charitable things such as the act of giving are things I feel are positive and I don't want to give 'em up. Yep, I will get a load of (narcissistic?) pleasure from my little nieces opening up their Christmas presents, but I would really rather the world kept a little charity in its heart.
/ot