The most credible source of altruistic motivation is empathy, the other-oriented emotional response elicited by the perceived condition of another. But empathic concern for others could still be rooted in the need to reduce empathy arousal, in a fear of censure, in a desire for reputational gain, and in gratification. But the best current psychological research indicates that while these exist, from the motivational perspective, these are "unintended consequences." Empathy has been shown in many experiments to provide a direct, unmediated, immediate response to the conditions of others (e.g., C. Daniel Batson).

Our love of others can of course be very healthy and its disinhibition can bring us joy, health and even longevity. But do not think that all expressions of love are healthy. Some are really just expressions of:

Self-inflicted suffering (masochistic, neglects care of the self)

Sadistic generosity (humiliates, berates, criticizes recipient)

Manipulative altruism (controlling, grandiose, narcissistic)

Compulsive altruism (coercive, cannot accept "no thanks," relies on gratitude to regulate low self-esteem)

Dependent altruism (giving no matter how much abuse, craves dependent relationship with a narcissist)

So even in the domain of love there is false consciousness. Purity from such negative tendencies is important, and vigilant self-awareness is thus needed. I have no great love for the masters of suspicion, like the philosopher Sartre, for whom all expressions of kindness were deemed manipulative. And yet we need such suspicions without being overwhelmed by them.