What is meant by "pseudo-selfishness" is more properly described as rational selfishness. Rational selfishness can be simply summed up as, "I take care of ME, then I can take care of YOU". Epistemologically it stems from the a priori (aka G_d Given) right to life. From there all other INDIVIDUAL rights are derived.
Rational selfishness in real life:
Randian, says I.