Interesting stuff here, still there are issues of what is actually meant by ‘selfishness’. In particular whether there is reward of some kind, after performing some task or act. Personally, I don’t see altruism as really existing at all, even – with respect – for those who are religious.
There are always ‘pay-offs’, whether it’s the warm fuzz of endorphins, or direct support, like the supposed selfless hermit, who is supported in prayer or devotion, by donations of food. Others do not let him/her starve, it rewards them in all kinds of ways to give, he or she receives alms or food or shelter with due gratitude and carries on.
I think in terms of transaction here, when it comes to the various acts of heroism or giving that are mentioned. And survival when we see the acts of heroism themselves. We are deeply (humans that is) ingrained to save others, when under duress ourselves. Without others, we cannot survive.
There is nothing negative about this, it’s how we are. Sentimentality and personal opinion colour in the various acts to give them meaning. So, Mother Theresa gave her days to working with the sick and poor. She had food and shelter. Her life was fulfilled, as her own beliefs described for her the relative necessities of her actions and, perhaps, the rewards that might come. It’s disingenuous to see anyone of religion as behaving without some sense of self improvement or regard, it’s built into the psyche.
Rather than the word ‘selfish’, which has such negative connotations, perhaps other, more generous words or phrases might be better used to describe behaviours which appear so ‘selfless’. For the greater good, towards sharing a more useful world, with care and concern for myself and others…?