Because people are ever willing to believe the negative over the positive. It's easier for you to think me corrupt and evil than it is for you to see me for what I really am. No one wants to believe that some people are willing to help others out of the goodness of their hearts because they can't stand to see someone suffer. So few people are altruistic that they can't understand or conceive that anyone else in the world could ever put someone else's good above their own. {Leta}
In the quote, the speaker reflects on the tendency of people to prefer negative assumptions about others rather than recognizing their potential for goodness. This tendency stems from a deeper skepticism about altruism, where individuals find it challenging to believe that others might act out of selflessness rather than personal gain. The speaker suggests that when faced with the prospect of charity or kindness, many choose to suspect ulterior motives instead of accepting that genuine help exists.
This perspective highlights a broader issue of human nature, where cynicism often prevails over optimism. The speaker suggests that this worldview can lead to a lack of recognition for those who truly care for the well-being of others. In a world where altruism is rare, it becomes difficult for many to understand that acts of kindness can be devoid of selfish intent, reinforcing a cycle of disbelief in the positivity that others may offer.
