"But there are times when the common good is in line, or is potentially in line with self-interest. A capricious shift in the winds, and your own house may be next in line to fall due to the fire. Wouldn't it then be better to put out the fire where it is, and wipe out this threat while earning the gratitude of the your neighbor at the same time?"
"But, unfortunately, most people don't seem to have that kind of vision. And the end result, is exactly as you describe. Especially when any external threat isn't clear, and starts to instigate internal crises."
"My guess is, there are people already who do think for the whole. But thought isn't merely enough. Action must be taken as well. The issue is, most of those who do think for the whole aren't in positions of power to be able to act as needed. Power tends to concentrate in the hands of those who prioritize their own standing over that of the group. It just seems to be how the universe works, perhaps even a consequence of natural selection, if you will."
"Yes, someone must think and stand for the whole. The problem is, it would seem to require that a person have two seemingly contradictory traits - to be able to solidify his own power, while at the same time thinking for the greater good. I'm not aware of anyone who does, yet."
