On the Principle of Self-Love (Rewritten).

One of the natural principles built into us, is self-love — the desire for our own happiness. Self-love deserves special attention because it is so easily twisted into selfishness that people sometimes treat it as if it were corrupt or evil in itself.

FIRST.— Theologians and philosophers of the mind generally agree that human beings are created with a principle of self-love, or a desire for personal happiness. Since this principle is built into our nature, it cannot be wrong when it works in its proper place and within its rightful limits. In other words, when we pursue our own happiness while also giving due regard to the claims of all other beings—especially the claims of the Supreme Being—we stand approved and guiltless before both conscience and our Maker.