Helping behavior refers to voluntary actions intended to help others, with reward regarded or disregarded. It is a type of prosocial behavior.
Workers and people from the nearby town helping repair a water borehole in Ghana
Image: Kin selection
Image: Negative state relief
Image: Social exchange
Altruism is the principle and practice of concern for the well-being and/or happiness of other humans or animals above oneself. While objects of altruistic concern vary, it is an important moral value in many cultures and religions. It may be considered a synonym of selflessness, the opposite of selfishness.
Giving alms to the poor is often considered an altruistic action.
Giving alms to beggar children
Volunteers assist Hurricane victims at the Houston Astrodome, following Hurricane Katrina.
Helping the homeless in New York City