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It's not a silly assertion, it's just that you've taken silly things away from this article. He's asserting that if you're too self interested / lack empathy you will hurt yourself in the long run.

It's ludicrous, not just silly. People are talking here like this is a study that can be verified.

It is a random person ranting and completely subjective.

You just re-defined asshole in a way that suits your argument.

The article doesn't define it that way.

Only if you can avoid subsequent deals with the same counterparties.

I suggest you look up game theory. Not being an asshole is actually the winning strategy over the long term.