Question

Can moral rules of cooperation emerge spontaneously from the interactions of rational egoists?

Answer 1

• Rational action is egoistic action” and one should always act rationally / egoistically.The most famous rational egoist, the writer Ayn Rand, argued strongly against sacrificing one’s own interests for others. She argued that not taking full advantage of one’s own freedom is immoral because it opposes the natural fulfilment of human potential, which is the best thing for everyone in a society. For example, if I don’t work as hard as possible for my own personal success, then I might fail to accomplish many things that would be good for the world.Nevertheless, many philosophers feel that rational egoism cannot provide a basis for ethical behavior—that it is, rather, a justification for amorality (no morality), which could be very dangerous.

• Rational egoism means furthering your own life according to reality and not by using force against others.In a society characterized by rational egoism, most will work primarily to further themselves and their lives, but this does not exclude helping others. Voluntarily helping and acting on behalf of others, both friends and strangers, leads to a better world for yourself. If everyone is coexisting peacefully and can cooperate when necessary, this provides the foundation for a harmonious and prosperous society. So it could lead to moral rules of helping others and not forcing one's rights on others.