>I disagree. I don't think he's stating that one always does what is best for himself and his family regardless of the cost or benefit to society. I think he's stating that you and your family come first and then society. '
>
>Finally, someone gets it.. :)
>
>Mille mercis

There is a hierarchy of importance to the self here

1) You
2) Your family
3) Your friends
4) Your pets
5) Your neighbors
6) Your State';s people
7) Your countrymen
8) Your allies
9) Others

If there was a threat on life, you would naturally save them in that order. However there are many stories of people sacrificing themselves to save a family member or pet.