What better way to stunt one's own potential and development than by focusing their time and resources on other people? Besides making us "feel good", what purpose does altruism actually serve? Imagine if we lived in a world where everyone only focused on their own betterment, only the strong would survive. Yes, it would initially be sad to see the weak perish, but in reality, they are holding back the rest of humanity from progressing in terms of science, technology and intellect.
Definitions
The Strong: Individuals aged 18 years or older that can self-sustain and contribute positively to society's economy.
The Weak: Individuals aged 18 years or older that cannot self-sustain without the assistance of others and cannot contribute positively towards society's economic stability.
(I am aware that many will flame me with emotionally ridden diatribes, but in their hearts they know I am making a valid point.)