Egoism (Noun)
Meaning 1
Concern for your own interests and welfare.
Classification
Nouns denoting attributes of people and objects.
Examples
- The celebrity's constant need for attention and praise was seen by many as an example of unapologetic egoism.
- His friends felt that his decision to prioritize his career over their well-being was driven by pure egoism.
- Some argued that capitalism promotes egoism, encouraging individuals to pursue their own interests above all else.
- After losing the job she felt she deserved, Sarah realized she needed to move beyond her own egoism and develop empathy for her competitors.
- Despite her concerns about her colleague's situation, Maria found herself wondering if his warnings were actually a veiled form of egoism aimed at justifying his inaction.
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Meaning 2
(ethics) the theory that the pursuit of your own welfare in the basis of morality.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The philosopher's defense of egoism was met with skepticism by many of his peers, who argued that it was a morally bankrupt theory.
- Egoism is often seen as a justification for selfish behavior, but its proponents argue that it is a necessary component of a healthy and functioning society.
- In the context of ethics, egoism is the idea that an individual's own self-interest is the primary motivator for moral action.
- The concept of egoism has been influential in the development of libertarian thought, which emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and autonomy.
- Critics of egoism argue that it is a flawed theory, as it prioritizes the interests of the individual over the greater good and can lead to exploitation and harm to others.