Egoism vs Altruism
Egoism and altruism are terms that represent two opposing human natures. Egoism is the quality of being selfish and excessively self-centered, while altruism is the quality of being completely selfless. Psychologists have long been interested in the way human behavior can fluctuate between these two extremes, and how various factors can influence this interplay.
What is Egoism?
Egoism, also known as egotism, can be defined as the quality of being excessively self-centered or conceited. An egoistic person typically disregards the needs and feelings of others, focusing only on their own self-interests. This individual may engage in activities that harm others in order to benefit themselves, often devoid of any sense of moral obligation. Some philosophers, such as Thomas Hobbes, believe that humans are naturally selfish, engaging in a constant battle against one another due to their inherent self-centeredness. However, not all individuals can be classified as egoistic, as demonstrated by the concept of altruism.
What is Altruism?
Altruism can be defined as unselfishness, or the act of putting the needs of others before one’s own. It is the opposite of egoism, as altruistic individuals prioritize the well-being of others, sometimes even at the expense of their own self-interest. Examples of altruism include a soldier sacrificing themselves to save their comrades or a parent risking their life to protect their child. In these situations, altruism may involve personal sacrifice, driven by a strong sense of moral obligation and emotional attachment. Altruism can also extend to helping complete strangers, such as a person risking their life to save someone else at a train station.
Key Takeaways
- Egoism is the quality of being excessively self-centered and selfish, while altruism is the quality of being selfless and prioritizing the needs of others.
- These two concepts represent opposing extremes of human nature.
- An egoistic person only cares for themselves, while an altruistic person focuses on the well-being of others, sometimes even at the expense of their own self-interest.
