I think that anyone who truly wants what is best for others will always come to the conclusion that “I”—the individual—is the foundation for anything legitimate. Indeed, only individuals think, and only individuals act. A “collective” can do no such thing. I’d say what you describe as thinking only of themselves is actually an ignorance and refusal to truly consider their individual life. Once we see we are the primary movers in our own lives, we realize that helping others ultimately makes our lives better as well.

I hear you, though, and don’t disagree, regarding that tendency in the US.