Selfishness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
😡
selfishness
[ˈsɛlfɪʃnəs ]
Definition
negative trait
Selfishness is the quality of being concerned only with oneself and not caring about the needs or feelings of others. It is often characterized by a lack of empathy and a focus on personal gain.
Synonyms
egoism, self-absorption, self-centeredness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| selfishness |
Used when someone puts their own needs and desires before others, often at the expense of others' well-being.
|
| self-centeredness |
Refers to someone who considers themselves the most important and often disregards others' perspectives.
|
| egoism |
Refers to an ethical theory that treats self-interest as the foundation of morality. Often a more formal term.
|
| self-absorption |
Used when someone is deeply focused on their own thoughts and feelings, often to the exclusion of others.
|
Examples of usage
- His selfishness led to the downfall of the team.
- She was blinded by her selfishness and couldn't see the harm she was causing.
- The selfishness of the politician was evident in his disregard for the well-being of his constituents.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that selfishness can stem from a lack of empathy, making it hard for some people to understand how others feel.
- Studies suggest that people who practice mindfulness are often less selfish, as they become more in tune with the feelings of others.
Philosophy
- Some philosophers argue that a certain level of selfishness is necessary for personal survival and self-care.
- Utilitarianism often debates the balance between individual needs and the greater good, examining the role of selfish actions in society.
Cultural Perceptions
- In many cultures, valuing community and family is seen as more important than individual desires, often labeling selfishness negatively.
- Some modern societies, especially in capitalism, may inadvertently encourage selfishness by prioritizing individual success over collective well-being.
Literature
- Classic literature often depicts selfishness as a flaw leading to the downfall of characters, illustrating the moral lessons of compassion.
- In fairy tales, characters who are selfish rarely receive happy endings, while those who share or show kindness are rewarded.
Evolutionary Biology
- Some theorists believe that selfishness can be an evolutionary strategy, ensuring personal survival while putting one's own needs first.
- Other studies propose 'kin selection,' where selfish behavior benefits relatives and can lead to shared genes, showing a different angle of selfishness.
Origin of 'selfishness'
The word 'selfishness' originated from the Old English word 'sylfisc', which meant 'selfish'. The concept of selfishness has been present throughout history, with various philosophers and thinkers discussing its implications on human behavior. It is often seen as a negative trait that can lead to conflicts and lack of cooperation in society.
See also: selfishly.