Allo Wsieber

But wseiber, how can we misinterpret the intention of that mother bird? It is to protect the babies. Even if, ultimately, she is not successful, I don’t see how that can not be altruism.

Maybe it's our personal interpretations of altruism?

One of the definitions of altruism I found was this...In human and animal behaviour, the tendency to act in ways that benefit other individuals more than oneself, sometimes even where there is a real cost involved to the giver.

And this...a generous willingness to help another person or persons, even when there is no reward or other observable benefit to the helper; often involves some sacrifice on the part of the helper

These are what I believe altruism to be. I’m not quite sure what definition you hold true – as usual on the Board we have varied opinions. Can you let me know?