Most people will act reasonably to pursue their interests. The best way to do that is by finding and exploiting shortcuts. If this shortcuts infringe on someone's interests they are bund to provoke opposition that may lead to failed projects or worse. Therefore people tend to cooperate to secure advantages. Because communication is easier in smaller groups elites are likely to emerge from the more successful associations. Elites as a group may seek cooperation with the rest or be tempted by the easier way to obtain an advantage by exploiting them.
Elites will always pursue their own interests so the rest must be on guard. Lack of accountability can lead to mounting tensions that may cause destruction adversely affecting everyone involved.
On the other hand if the good life is created by rational actors pursuing their goals then cooperation is most certainly advantageous.
Institutionalised cooperation is even better due to improved communication and accumulated knowledge of successful methods and processes but is prone to be hijacked by corrupt elites who may become too comfortable if their is lack of accountability and be tempted to abuse the power that they have helped create by organising society.
Personal/individual freedom is essential for the common good! Personal freedom is only possible when it is based on personal property. Personal property is only possible when it is protected by a powerful state. Otherwise it is a mere fiction. The power of the state stems from the cooperation of the people. Public/national interest different from the personal interest is a dangerous delusion used by many dictators and should be seen as such.
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