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Martin Bedick's avatar

Very interesting column and I agree with the general concept. As for the comments of J. Ketchum, I think people actually do act in a manner intended to benefit them somehow. The soldier who throws himself on a grenade values saving the lives of his comrades at least 1 degree more than he values saving his own life. Jumping to one's death at the Twin Towers means jumping had at least 1 degree more utility than burning to death. A famous trader once said "everybody gets what they want out of the market. Some people seem to like to lose, so they win by losing money." People are getting some benefit from their behavior though the rest of us may not fully understasnd what the benefit is.

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M. P. Kitchen's avatar

If we keep forgetting about the "sin" problem, we will keep forgetting that people are basically selfish. One might assume that they are just trying to gain happiness, but the question is whether they are doing it just for themselves or for the benefit of all. That difference makes all the difference. If it were possible for all to follow Jim's good principle, then there could be no sociopaths, psychopaths or narcissists. Since we cannot fix ourselves, we will never rid ourselves of these problems.

On the other hand, the principle is a very good one to follow in our own, individual lives. It sets a good example and it makes life better for those around us.

Thanks, Jim.

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