[shuntress]

This "it's all about me attitude" is definitely present in western society but I disagree that it is "so ingrained ... That the greater good is utterly discounted"

It seems, based on observing reality, that the greater good is far more ingrained. That's why things like public schools, post offices, animal rescues, ambulances, and fire departments are so common and tend to function relatively well.

I see some validity to the argument that "it's all about me" is perhaps gaining ground on "greater-good" but it seems clear that "greater-good" is still the majority.