Final answer:
Altruism is important as it fosters social cohesion and has evolutionary benefits. Researchers debate whether it stems from empathy, selfless concern, or reciprocal expectations. Altruism's role ranges from individual benefits to species-level advantages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why might a person think that altruism would be important in the system? Altruism, which is the selfless concern for the well-being of others, plays a crucial role in the social dynamics within societies. Researchers have various perspectives on why people engage in altruistic behavior.
Some attribute it to empathy, where individuals emotionally connect with others and feel compelled to assist them, while others see it as a completely selfless act not motivated by personal gain or satisfaction.
There are also arguments suggesting that prosocial behavior, or voluntary behavior intended to benefit others, may stem from genetic predispositions as described in Richard Dawkins' "The Selfish Gene," where such acts contribute to the survival of shared genes.
Meanwhile, reciprocal altruism explains the mutual aid between unrelated individuals as an expectation of future benefits, strengthening social bonds within a community.
Through various examples and theories, it becomes clear that altruism can be beneficial for the individual, kin, and wider social group in terms of evolutionary fitness, ethical living, and societal cohesion.