Kindness - Haiti Observer Blog

When bad things happen, people rush to offer aid. No country understands this better than Haiti after the disastrous earthquake of January 2010. Scores of countries, the United States prominent among them came to offer assistance. The same has happened as disaster after disaster has struck different shores and regions across the globe. People clamber to give assistance. But, why?

Of course the answer given is compassion and kindness. Most people are moved into action by a need to help others who suffer, and this impetus is chalked down to caring hearts. But, according to a psychology professor, Art Markman from the University of Texas, the true motivation might actually be more selfish than altruistic.

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