To answer whether or not nursing is an altruistic profession, we must first examine whether or not true altruism actually exists.
What is Altruism? Altruism is the belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Does it exist? I do not believe that true altruism actually exists; there can be no act that is done that does not involve some level of self-interest. For example, altruistic acts can be a defense mechanism in which one pushes his or her needs into the backgorund and focus on others, thereby never having to confront the uncomfortable nature of their own feelings. One such coping mechanism is sublimation. One can focus on others without ever having to confront their own anxiety provoking emotions
What is Altruism? Altruism is the belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Does it exist? I do not believe that true altruism actually exists; there can be no act that is done that does not involve some level of self-interest. For example, altruistic acts can be a defense mechanism in which one pushes his or her needs into the backgorund and focus on others, thereby never having to confront the uncomfortable nature of their own feelings. One such coping mechanism is sublimation. One can focus on others without ever having to confront their own anxiety provoking emotions