> > I want to study medicine because of a desire I
    > > have to help others
    >
    > Let's get real--this is said over, and over again,
    > and I've never bought it.

The article is aimed at people who are trying to do as much good as possible with their careers. They're not asking "is the typical doctor altruistic?" but "if I'm altruistic should I become a doctor?".