self-centred

when we make our decisions, is it our interests we place first and foremost? was it for others? out of consideration and the true desire to help others or give them a chance or even to prevent them from feeling sad? or do we do things so that primarily, we won't feel bad, and secondarily, others feel good? does it even matter as long as both objectives are met? the bottom line is: are we intrinsically selfish?

i shouldn't do rumination. seriously, i should just study and develop thoughts on pure academia.