TWO ALTRUISTIC ACTS:
Purposes of assignment: To honor the Father of Sociology: Auguste Compte and to earn marks.
Meaning of altruism: Comte says that:
[to live for others], the definitive formula of human morality, gives a direct sanction exclusively to our instincts of benevolence, the common source of happiness and duty. [Man must serve] Humanity, whose we are entirely. Altruism is an ethical doctrine that holds that individuals have a moral obligation to help, serve, or benefit others, if necessary at the sacrifice of self-interest. Auguste Comtes version of altruism calls for living for the sake of others. One who holds to either of these ethics is known as an altruist.
**(Reference) Lindsey, L.; Beach, S.; Ravelli, B. (2006) Core Concepts in Sociology. Toronto, ON: Pearson Prentice Hall
Effects of Altruism on giver and sometimes also the receiver:
endorphins go up; experience a helpers high
often stop being depressed
live healthier happier longer life
reports of less heart disease
reduces stress
results in greater self-worth;
experiences of less pain
more life satisfaction ______
(_Reference) ___Post, S. &Neimark, J (2007) Why Good Things Happe Jnn to Good People. New York. Broadway Books)
YOUR ALTRUISM ASSIGNMENT:
Go out and do TWO altruistic acts AND apply one of the ways to be a Good sociologist, to each act, as stated on your course outline:
1. Standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves
2. Appreciating and supporting human diversity in all its rich and wonderful forms
3. Being humble realizing that every person you meet has something to teach, if you are willing to learn
4. Living your life with equal parts passion and compassion
5. Leaving this world in better condition than we found it.
(Reference) Lindsey, L.; Beach, S.; Ravelli, B. (2006) Core Concepts in Sociology. Toronto, ON: Pearson Prentice Hall, Pg. 24.
Observe the person you were kind towards and your own emotions, related to the act
Type two paragraphs in ONE TWO double spaced pages ( in word) an essay explaining the altruistic experiences you engaged in; how you applied being a Good Sociologist to each act of kindness, and your observations of yourself and the receiver of your altruistic act.
POST the essay, in the assignment drop box, before the due date and time ( on your course outline). Make sure your name, the date, Dr. Doetzel, and your class number is on the essay