Written By Diksshita Jadhav and Kelly-Ann Allen

As Phoebe Buffay wisely said in Friends, “No good deed is selfless.” This insight is supported by evidence showing the reciprocal nature of the benefits of helping others.

Growing up with an older brother, I always had to share the last piece of cake or had to pick between two plates of food. I often found myself choosing the smaller piece or the plate with a slightly smaller portion and intentionally handing the other to my brother. At first, when I was too young to understand my reasoning behind this, it intrigued me. Over time, I began to realize how that act made me feel. I used to feel immense joy and happiness seeing him happy.

The emotions tied to such actions go far beyond the simplicity of the gesture itself. Approaches that prioritize others’ well-being, often called........

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