Honestly don't know if there's a right answer or the definition is wrong...

Mike by definition if you get any gratitude out of it,it's no longer a selfless act.

well put Wayfarer! Also the reason for the post.

Agree with both Wayfarer and MikeL but to be devils advocate ,if someone gained pleasure or happiness by helping another would that not negate the selflessness.

Had stumbled across the forum. Had the same thoughts myself. So thanks for the post. Regarding the 10,000 colonists and popular therory, thatd be the bare minimal genetically to self sustain humanity. Also given they have the tech at that point to sustain themselves.

I feel like guns or weapons taken on the first trip or two to mars would totally f*** the social dynamic of any new colonizing group . Also agree once big enough its inevitable that a sustainable community would demand independence.