The puzzle of altruism is best stated in the opening line that wonders if altruism does opposite of what it means to.
Explanation:
Altruism is a murky territory. It is one of the core values of humanity in the modern sense in that the people acknowledge that there is a need to give back to less fortunate ones if one is in fact, fortunate.
But then again, there is a thing that the altruism may only lead to more altruism and not actual independence from the need of altruism as it does not build, it merely provides.
Thus, until there is a way to use such altruism effectively this will be an issue pervading them.
Thoreau's actions reveal that he believes the society to be corrupt. That is why life in the woods is the best possible option for any human being. Reconnecting with nature and abandoning cities.
