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Egoistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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egoistic

 

[ˌiΛΙ‘Ι™ΚŠΛˆΙͺstΙͺk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

self-centered behavior

Egoistic refers to a mindset that is driven by self-interest and personal gain. This perspective often prioritizes one's own needs or desires over those of others. In many situations, an egoistic individual may disregard the feelings, rights, or wellbeing of others to fulfill their own desires. Egoism contrasts with altruism, which emphasizes the welfare of others rather than oneself. This term is often used in discussions of morality, ethics, and psychology.

Synonyms

egocentric, narcissistic, self-serving, selfish.

Examples of usage

  • His egoistic approach to teamwork alienated his colleagues.
  • Egoistic motives can lead to conflicts in relationships.
  • She made an egoistic choice that favored her promotion over her friend's chance.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'ego', meaning 'I', emphasizing a focus on oneself.
  • The suffix '-istic' comes from Greek, used to describe qualities, indicating behaviors related to ego.
  • Egoism as a philosophy dates back to the 19th century, contrasting with altruism, which promotes selflessness.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that extreme egoism can lead to issues in personal relationships, as empathy often decreases.
  • The concept is often examined in discussions of narcissism, where a person's self-centered behavior can stem from deeper psychological needs.
  • Researchers have found that egoistic behaviors can sometimes lead to short-term success but often hinder long-lasting happiness.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies feature egotistical characters, often as villains or anti-heroes, highlighting the consequences of selfishness.
  • Social media influencers sometimes exhibit egoistic traits by prioritizing personal brand over genuine connection with followers.
  • Reality TV shows frequently showcase egoistic behavior, as conflicts arise when cast members focus on self-image rather than team dynamics.

Philosophy

  • Egoism is often contrasted with altruism, prompting debates about moral and ethical decisions in human interactions.
  • Ethical egoism suggests that acting in one’s self-interest can be morally right, provoking discussions about the nature of morality itself.
  • Philosophers like Ayn Rand championed egoism as a rational approach to life, arguing that it leads to personal and societal benefit.

Education

  • In classrooms, egoistic behaviors may hinder teamwork, as cooperation requires recognizing and valuing others' inputs.
  • Teaching empathy and teamwork skills in schools has been shown to decrease egoistic attitudes among students.
  • Students who learn to balance personal interests with those of their peers tend to develop better social skills and relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,379, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.