Well understood self-interest: "Care recipient becomes caregiver"

CProsperity obviously contributes to our happiness, but not infinitely. In fact, at some level, we become happier by sharing our wealth with others. That gives a good feeling and there is nothing wrong with that. It seems to me a valuable manifestation of a rational principle: a healthy expression of well-understood self-interest. It increases our own happiness as well as that of people in extremely vulnerable positions. So no reason to doubt! Off we go …
This insight is confirmed by my own experience. It gives a good feeling to be able to make a difference as a victim with many permanent disabilities by fighting the suffering of others: to gain added value from the extremely banal bad luck situation. Never thought it would be possible, but now a compelling focus with bonus points. Sharing also makes me happier. But is that bad? I do not think so. On the contrary.
Despite extreme bad luck, being able to take advantage of favorable circumstances has meant the difference for me between living on without more and a truly valuable existence. Being well surrounded has been (and still is!) essential for me to achieve valuable goals. I wish that for everyone. Being able to contribute to this and thereby clarifying the insight that this benefits everyone (including ourselves) is an enormous motivation. My empathy for people in vulnerable positions needs no additional guidance. I know how it is. Nevertheless, a meaningful restart in those circumstances feels like a basic right. And also from a rational point of view it is extremely defensible.
Let's go for it. The conditions for eradicating unjust inequality without making oneself unhappy or in need of help, have never been greater. Good support and guidance can be made available to (almost) everyone. Let's go!
It is my intention (with a targeted effort) to get 'some kind of added value' out of an extreme bad luck situation. For the happiness of others and also myself. So I want to make one plus one three.
That's why I support Effective Altruism: charity based on the scientific method. All personal proceeds from my books go towards unconditional basic incomes for extremely poor people and the reduction of animal suffering in our industry.
All the best,
Stijn