On Thursday’s episode of Philosophy in Action Radio, Greg Perkins and I answered questions on concern for others in egoism, the need for support from others, and more. The podcast of that episode is now available for streaming or downloading.

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Whole Podcast: 27 February 2014

Listen or Download:

• Duration: 1:11:03
• Download: Enhanced M4A File (25.5 MB)
• Download: Standard MP3 File (24.4 MB)

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Podcast Segments: 27 February 2014

You can download or listen to my answers to individual questions from this episode below.

Introduction

My News of the Week: I’ve had my last lesson – a great cross-country school – here at Aiken today. Lila and I jumped things that would have been impossible to us before, and we did them safely! Today, I’ve been frantically packing. I have lots more to do after the broadcast, and we tomorrow morning at 6 am.

Question 1: Concern for Others in Egoism

Question: Does ethical egoism promote narcissism and insensitivity to others? People often suggest that ethical egoism – such as the Objectivist ethics advocated by Ayn Rand – promotes unfriendly if not hostile behavior toward other people. Ultimately, the egoist cares for himself above everything else, perhaps to the point that the thoughts and feelings of others aren’t even noticed or of concern. The problem seems to be exacerbated by a commitment to moral absolutes and moral judgment. So do these ethical principles incline a person to be self-absorbed, insensitive, hostile, unkind, or otherwise unpleasant to others? How can egoists take care not to fall into these traps?

My Answer, In Brief: The only true form of egoism is based on voluntary trade to mutual benefit, which requires recognizing the value of other people and respecting them. Some advocates of egoism are jerks, narcissists, or worse, but that’s not due to their egoism, but despite it.

Listen or Download:

• Start Time: 4:40
• Duration: 46:40
• Download: MP3 Segment
• Tags: Benevolence, Conflicts of Interest, Egoism, Ethics, Honesty, Independence, Justice, Narcissism, Objectivism, Predation, Psychology, Relationships, Values, Virtue

Links:

• NoodleFood: Introduction to DiSC

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Question 2: The Need for Support from Others

Question: Should my romantic partner be interested in and supportive of my accomplishments and pursuits? I have struggled for years in a relationship with someone who shows no interest in or support for my pursuits. I try not to be hurt. I tell myself I just need to do better in order to be worthy of respect and admiration. When I explain to my partner why I’m hurt, he says I am being needy and that I shouldn’t need his praise or reinforcement. I don’t know how to logically disagree with this, yet I know how good it feels to receive earned praise from friends, and how painful it feels to accomplish something big and not receive any acknowledgement from my partner. What kind of emotional support should be expected from a partner? If a partner is dismissive and neglectful, how can one gain the confidence needed to leave the relationship?

My Answer, In Brief: Approval and support from your romantic partner is hugely important to any healthy relationship. If you’re not getting that, then you need to change that relationship, pronto.

Listen or Download:

• Start Time: 51:20
• Duration: 18:17
• Download: MP3 Segment
• Tags: Communication, Ethics, Independence, Manipulation, Psychology, Relationships, Romance, Values

Links:

• “Toward a Lasting Romantic Relationship,” Part 1 and Part 2 by Edith Packer
• Philosophy in Action: Five Love Languages

To comment on this question or my answer, visit its comment thread.

Conclusion

Be sure to check out the topics scheduled for upcoming episodes! Don’t forget to submit and vote on questions for future episodes too!

• Start Time: 1:09:38

About Philosophy in Action Radio

Philosophy in Action Radio focuses on the application of rational principles to the challenges of real life. It broadcasts live on most Sunday mornings and many Thursday evenings over the internet. For information on upcoming shows, visit the Episodes on Tap. For podcasts of past shows, visit the Show Archives.