I’m a member of the millennial generation. I keep a blog. So what do I know about narcissism? A lot, really.

This feeling of an overbearing love for one’s self seems to be getting popular. Many would argue that people are less likely to lend a helping hand to their neighbor compared to yesteryear. I haven’t lost faith just yet, and here’s why.

Peace
If there’s any correlation between narcissism and violence, then Harvard Psychologist Steven Pinker may argue that this is the least narcissistic time period in all of human history. According to Pinker, violence has been declining. His research shows that violence has been declining rapidly for centuries, and we may be living in the most peaceful time in all of human history.

Philanthropy
According to the GivingUSA Foundation, the latest statistics show that charitable contributions rose 3.8 percent in 2010 compared to 2009. Even when considering inflation, contributions rose 2.1 percent. It is very natural to consider the economic climate when analyzing these statistics. Regardless of the most recent recession in the United States, total giving as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) has been hovering above 2.0 percent since 1997. This elevated level of giving has not been achieved since the time period between 1956 through 1972.

Racism
Racism still vibrantly exists in our world, however most would agree that racism overall has decreased significantly throughout the previous 60 years.

Ethnocentrism
Everyone who lives in the United States of American believes that our way of life is superior, right? Wrong. Today, as an American citizen, you are now in the minority if you think your country offers the best cultural experience compared to all others. Research conducted by the Pew Research Center shows that only 49 percent of Americans agree with the statement, “Our people are not perfect, but our culture is superior to others.” This percentage has decreased drastically from the 60 percent of Americans who agreed with this statement in 2002.

These few snapshots only tell part of the story. The institutions of our society have an opportunity and an obligation to instill a sense of altruism in the generations of our youth. Everyone needs to learn these values from somewhere, whether it be the family, religion, education, or even the government. A sense of togetherness can be achieved.