ETHICAL EGOISM Meaning and
Definition
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Ethical egoism is a philosophical perspective that advocates individuals should act in accordance with their own self-interests when making ethical decisions. This philosophy asserts that individuals are inherently self-centered and should prioritize their own well-being and personal goals above any other considerations. According to ethical egoism, humans have a moral duty to act in ways that benefit themselves, as long as these actions do not directly harm others.
In the realm of ethics, ethical egoism stands in contrast to theories such as utilitarianism and deontological ethics, which prioritize the welfare of others or adherence to specific moral rules, respectively. Ethical egoists argue that since each person is in the best position to understand their own needs, desires, and personal context, they should be the primary judge of what actions are morally right for themselves. This perspective typically rejects the idea of altruism, which emphasizes selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Critics of ethical egoism argue that it fails to adequately address the moral obligations individuals have towards others and society as a whole, emphasizing self-interest at the expense of promoting the greater good. They argue that ethical egoism can lead to negative consequences such as selfishness, a lack of compassion, and a disregard for societal norms and values. However, proponents of ethical egoism argue that it provides a realistic and pragmatic approach to ethics by acknowledging the inherent self-interest that motivates human behavior, while still allowing for mutually beneficial interactions between individuals.
Etymology of ETHICAL EGOISM
The word "ethical egoism" is coined from the combination of two terms: "ethical" and "egoism".
- The term "ethical" is derived from the Greek word "ethikos", which means "relating to morals or customs". It originated from the noun "ethos", meaning "character" or "custom". The word "ethikos" evolved to "ethikē" in Latin, then transformed into "ethique" in Old French, and finally became "ethical" in English.
- The term "egoism" is derived from the Latin word "ego", which means "I" or "self". It is associated with the concept of self-interest or self-centeredness. The word "egoism" is formed by adding the suffix "-ism" to "ego".
