This session is a prelude to the Transpersonal Psychology section's 2021 online conference, the theme of which is transpersonal activism.

In this session, based on his recent book Spiritual Science, and his recent academic papers 'The Puzzle of Altruism' and 'Towards a Utopian Society,' Steve Taylor will suggest that human 'goodness' – as manifested in qualities such as compassion, altruism and justice – is related to a sense of connection. Conversely, malevolent human behaviour is related to a sense of separation. A sense of separation brings an inability to empathise, or to take other people’s perspectives, and a preoccupation with one’s own desires and goals. A sense of separation also creates a sense of lack and vulnerability, which leads to a strong desire to accumulate power, status and wealth. The 'dark triad' traits of psychopathy, narcissism and Machiavellianism can be seen as extreme forms of separation. This issue becomes especially urgent when research shows that people with a severe lack of empathy – who may possess 'dark triad' traits are egocentric, ruthless and even psychopathic – are drawn towards leadership positions, including political power. 

We will discuss the topic of altruism, reflecting on our own experiences, and whether altruism can be explained in terms of hidden selfish motives, or whether 'pure' altruism exists. I argue that altruism is the result of a fundamental connection between human beings, which manifests itself in empathy.