Question

Given the various views on egoism and altruism discuss whether you think ‘having children’ is an endeavor that is egoist, altruistic, both or neither. Provide reasons for your view on this matter.

Answer 1

• According to me it could be egoistic because when you decide to have them it is you who decide that. You make a conscious choice to bring them to this world- for your own sole pleasure. To raise them, to be a witness to their story, to see them grow, but you are doing it for yourself on the first place. Because they aren't here yet; so you can't decide for them or you can't be doing that for them.
• At the beginning it is you who want kids. 'I want kids' - 'I' is you, your ego. Your dreams and fantasies.You can't say that you are doing it for the 'kids' because they aren't even here.
• But bearing and raising a child after being born could be altruistic,since parents do everything for their children,to give them a good life and protect them from all the hardships of life.They are always their for children,fulfilling their wishes,life revolves around children after their birth,and parents selflessly and tirelessly work for their children,to give them the best life and the best future.