This week I would like to attempt to tackle the controversial issue of prosocial behavior, specifically altruism. Altruism is defined as any act helping others, that does in no way benefit the helper and is done without self-interest in mind.

A question has long been contemplated by social psychologists and citizens alike: does altruism really exist? Can someone truly do something for another person without some sort of personal gain?

For instance, take Abe Zelmanowitz, a victim of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Zelmanowitz was on the 27th floor of the North Tower when the second plane hit floors above him. Instead of instantly fleeing to safety, Zelmanowitz stayed on the 27th floor with his friend and coworker Ed Beyea, who was confined to a wheelchair, waiting for firefighters to help transport Beyea downstairs. Both Zelmanowitz and Beyea were killed when the North Tower fell. 

Zelmanowitz’s behavior was undoubtedly heroic and incredibly selfless. But, was staying with his friend an act of real altruism? Zelmanowitz sacrificed his life for the possibility of saving his friend, which is something to be respected, but was this truly altruism?

The Social Exchange Theory argues no. In fact, it asserts that altruism does not even exist. This theory states that any prosocial behavior, any seemingly selfless act, does in some way bring the doer of this act reward. This reward could be an increased probability that the person you helped will eventually help you in a time of need. It could be to relieve the personal distress of seeing someone unhappy or in need. And, very importantly, it could be to provide one with feelings of self-worth.

Social exchange theorists would, of course, consider Zelmanowitz’s actions brave, but they reiterate that those courageous actions brought him psychological rewards. They would most likely focus on the idea that helping others increases self-esteem.

When I say self-esteem, I am referring to something intrinsic, something inherent in the human psyche. Self-esteem is much more deeply rooted in our subconscious than our casual understanding of the term implies. The need to be liked and accepted, to feel good about yourself, is one of our most basic motivations. It frames our perceptions of the world and induces different behaviors.

How would Zelmanowitz have lived with himself if he had deserted his friend? How would he feel about himself if he had fled when Beyea needed him the most? By remaining by Beyea’s side in a time of great chaos and fright, by helping another person, Zelmanowitz was able to retain his self-esteem, not in a vain way, but in a primal and intensely human way. Social exchange theorists would argue that this subconscious reward discredits the claim that Zelmanowitz acted altruistically.

So, I challenge you. Can you think of a time that you helped someone and did not receive any form of reward, no matter how small, for that behavior? Ask yourself, does altruism really exist? While the Social Exchange Theory is, in fact, cynical, it may just be correct.