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Lack of Altruism Questioned

To the Editor:

The article "Factors Physical Therapists Use to Make Career Decisions," by Marcia J Pearl (Phys Ther. 1990;70:105–107), includes the statement, "A clinician who cites salary and convenience of location as priorities does not seem to be motivated by altruism" (page 107).

One dictionary defines "altruism" as a "concern for the welfare of others." In view of the definition of altruism, I would question the motivation of the author in the above conclusion. In my mind, concern for salary and convenience of location is not in all instances mutually exclusive and incompatible with altruism. Desire to provide for one's family and having a "concern for the welfare of others" could support the assumption that we do seem to be motivated by altruism.

Why cast doubt on a positive profession with negative assumptions?

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Factors Physical Therapists Use to Make Career Decisions

Marcia J Pearl
Physical Therapy 1990 70: 105-107. [Abstract] [PDF]