Self Interest

Over two hundred years ago philosopher Adam Smith categorized people as largely being motivated by their own self interest. Men and women, he suggested, act in ways that best serve their own purposes and, ultimately, help them achieve their own goals. Fast forward to the 21st century and it would seem little has changed. (No, I'm not talking necessarily about politicians. That would be too easy. Rather, I'm talking about ordinary people like you and me.) This is particularly true when it comes to communicating.

People share their own thoughts, view things from their own perspectives, and listen with their own ears. The question is how much of this speaking, thinking and listening is done with other viewpoints being part of the mix? While the answer to this fundamental question has not yet been documented, it nevertheless is one for all of to consider as we navigate our way through the challenges of each day. Learning and understanding the perspectives of other people is one way of building a bridge. Not making this effort is nothing short of a bridge to nowhere. (Hmmm. Where have I heard that before?)

Taking the time to grasp what others are saying and thinking may not necessarily cause any of us to change our minds or alter our behavior, but it does make us step outside of our own hides and reinforces the notion that as a member of society, each of us is more than a "me" but instead a "we."