There are some historical examples of altruistic behavior (famous cases like Tolstoy and Gandhi) that show that, in the right context, many people find in frugality and in accounting for charitable works a certain psychological satisfaction comparable to that which others find in the so-called “virtue of thrift” and in the enjoyment of their possessions. It might be worthwhile to explore these kinds of social contexts and emotional rewards. There are many paths to happiness.
Yeah, I totally agree. It seems like that one should be able to be quite satisfied with minimal possessions and luxuries as long as their needs for connection, purpose, safety, and stability are satisfied. It would be interesting to look at the data on this.
I don’t think there’s much data yet on how a person motivated to act altruistically can have their material sacrifices and lifestyle changes (frugality, dedication, commitment) compensated with non-material emotional benefits. But there have been quite a few comments on the book “Strangers Drowning” in this forum.
There are some historical examples of altruistic behavior (famous cases like Tolstoy and Gandhi) that show that, in the right context, many people find in frugality and in accounting for charitable works a certain psychological satisfaction comparable to that which others find in the so-called “virtue of thrift” and in the enjoyment of their possessions. It might be worthwhile to explore these kinds of social contexts and emotional rewards. There are many paths to happiness.
Yeah, I totally agree. It seems like that one should be able to be quite satisfied with minimal possessions and luxuries as long as their needs for connection, purpose, safety, and stability are satisfied. It would be interesting to look at the data on this.
I don’t think there’s much data yet on how a person motivated to act altruistically can have their material sacrifices and lifestyle changes (frugality, dedication, commitment) compensated with non-material emotional benefits. But there have been quite a few comments on the book “Strangers Drowning” in this forum.
I’ll have to check that out at some point.