We are innately selfish (altruistic and other-centered) and learn to be generous (egoistic and self-interested). We are naturally vicious, but learn to develop staunch, noble character so we may lead a life of normalcy, even virtue.
Though our veneer of civilized behavior is only skin deep, and we are passionate, barbaric savages and monsters underneath, our virtuous surface demeanor is not usually hypocritical. It is firm, sincere, and strong: we mean what we say and say what we mean. We do what we say and say what we do.
This skin-deep virtue is important and is leading the moral life. Every saint is a raging beast papered over, but he is saintly nonetheless, and likely will so remain, unless extreme provocation upends his equilibrium and self-discipline.
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