Why we should take an interest in others

In a world where it is becoming more and more normal that most people are hardly interested in anything other than themselves, it is all the more important to take an interest in others. This statement may sound very illogical or counterintuitive at first, which is why I would like to share with you how I came to this realization.

First of all, I would like to explain how I came to the idea that people are increasingly tending to turn inwards and take an interest in themselves.

Whereas less than 200 years ago it was impossible for an individual to survive alone, nowadays it is surprisingly easy to eke out an existence on your own, almost in complete isolation. Modern science and economics make it possible for us to have enough to eat and a roof over our heads. The price we pay for this is isolation. Of course, there are also other factors at play here, such as the fact that most people hardly ever communicate with other people in person anymore, instead primarily chatting online. What is also not exactly beneficial is the incredibly self-centered self-presentation required by social media.

But why is it so important to take an interest in others when most people are hardly interested in anyone other than themselves? The answer is as simple as it is straightforward. 

Firstly, it does you good to take an interest in others. We can only really experience one single existence, but we can experience many others. When we take an interest in others, we see that life is not just made up of vacation photos, that not everything is just joy and fun. We can be friends to others through both good and bad times. All of this rounds off the experience of our own lives.

Secondly, someone must or should take the first step. How else is someone supposed to realize that taking an interest not only in themselves but also in others is a good thing if no one shows it?

What is your opinion on this topic? Do you also think that taking an interest in others can be a great pleasure or do you think that if no one is interested in you, you don't need to be interested in anyone? Just share your thoughts in the comments.