The source of all negative thoughts and emotions – and the selfish behaviour they lead to – is an excessive concern for ourselves, causing us to neglect the welfare of others. The reason we so often ignore the feelings and wishes of others, and are disrespectful of their views and opinions, is that we are so wrapped up in ourselves. This is called self-cherishing in Buddhism, and it is at the core of all our emotional problems. However, we do need to look after ourselves and care for both our body and mind. Self-respect and self-confidence are necessary and to be cultivated. But how do we distinguish between these constructive states of mind from the destructive attitudes of self-cherishing and selfishness?  In this morning course we will apply the clarity of Buddhist psychology to this important question, and learn to use meditation to encourage self-respect whilst freeing our mind from selfishness.