Taking One for the Team?

Can it be true? I read over the weekend that losing self-control can be a GOOD thing. Our general sense of self-control and discipline encompass a large part of what we consider being a "responsible adult". The discipline needed to suppress certain urges to overindulge in food, clothes, sex, and drinking and make hard choices for a successful personal life or career are things we not only applaud - but seek to instill in future generations of men and women.

Historically, we are living beings who thrive on self-control to gain success in the ways we've deemed valuable - in gaining money, property, large families, etc. This is an essential product of "self-control," our moral principles and obligations. Having the discipline to be more selfless in our actions is crucial to the success of the group as a whole.

But when is self-control too much of a danger? Can you see the white line before you cross into self-deprivation, self-punishment, and self-injury? And how far do we expect others to go in being "selfless" and giving up some of their own desires and comfort for the good of the group? Consider the corporate environment - this is the core philosophy that drives every business to their success. Ideas must be sacrificed, individuals must be let go, and conflicts must be resolved (or locked away) in order for the whole to survive. Can you still count the number of times you've had to sacrifice?

This is all just a little food to chew for the evening. I think it's a fascinating topic, and will probably revisit it later on. Please feel free to comment!