Essay Topic: Psychological Egoism (Chapter 7):
During wartime and other times of crises, there are people who seem to willingly sacrifice their lives to save others for a greater good. For example, on September 11, 2001, Todd Beamer and others on United Flight 93 overpowered the planes hijackers and, in doing so, prevented the plane from crashing into Washington, D.C. Beamer and the other 43 passengers and crew members were killed when the plane crashed in a remote area of Pennsylvania.
Assignment:
In a short essay, answer the questions below.Refer to, and cite, the material in Chapter 7 to support your points:
- How might Thomas Hobbes and E. O. Wilson explain Beamers actions in terms of “psychological egoism“?
- Are you satisfied with their explanations?
- Why or why not? Be specific in supporting your answer.
Length:
- Write between 275 words, minimum, and 350 words, maximum
- This is, roughly, one double-spaced page – not including the title page and reference page
