Altruism is defined as the selfless concern for the well-being of others. In psychology, altruism is seen as a form of prosocial behavior that is motivated by a desire to help others without expecting anything in return. It is a concept that has fascinated psychologists for many years, as it challenges the traditional view of human behavior as being driven solely by self-interest.

While some may argue that true altruism does not exist, there are many examples of individuals demonstrating acts of altruism that inspire and uplift us. Here are 8 inspiring examples of altruism in psychology:

1. Mother Teresa
One of the most well-known examples of altruism is Mother Teresa, a nun who dedicated her life to helping the poor and sick in India. She lived a life of selflessness and compassion, always putting the needs of others before her own.

2. Oskar Schindler
During World War II, Oskar Schindler risked his life to save over 1,200 Jewish refugees from the Nazi concentration camps by employing them in his factory. His actions demonstrated incredible courage and selflessness in the face of great danger.

3. Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is a young Pakistani activist who became a vocal advocate for girls’ education after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban. Despite facing threats to her own safety, she continues to fight for the rights of all children to receive an education.

4. Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi was a leader of the Indian independence movement who practiced nonviolent resistance to protest against British colonial rule. His commitment to peace, justice, and equality inspired millions of people around the world.

5. Fred Hollows
Fred Hollows was an Australian ophthalmologist who dedicated his life to providing eye care to people in developing countries. He set up clinics and trained local medical staff to perform sight-saving surgeries, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.

6. Rosa Parks
Rosa Parks was a civil rights activist who famously refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and played a key role in the civil rights movement in the United States.

7. Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall is a primatologist and conservationist who has spent decades studying chimpanzees in their natural habitat. She has also been a vocal advocate for environmental conservation and animal welfare, inspiring others to protect the natural world.

8. Bob Geldof
Bob Geldof is a musician and activist who organized the Live Aid concerts in 1985 to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The concerts brought together some of the biggest names in music and raised millions of dollars for humanitarian aid.

These examples of altruism in psychology demonstrate the power of selfless acts of kindness and compassion. While the world can sometimes seem dark and divided, these individuals remind us that there is still hope and goodness to be found in the hearts of people. Altruism is not just a concept in psychology – it is a driving force that can inspire positive change and make the world a better place for all.