Selfishness: meaning, definitions and examples
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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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "selfishness" in other languages:
🇵🇹 egoísmo
🇮🇳 स्वार्थ
🇩🇪 Egoismus
🇮🇩 egoisme
🇺🇦 егоїзм
🇵🇱 egoizm
🇯🇵 利己主義 (りこしゅぎ)
🇫🇷 égoïsme
🇪🇸 egoísmo
🇹🇷 bencillik
🇰🇷 이기심
🇸🇦 أنانية
🇨🇿 sobectví
🇸🇰 sebecstvo
🇨🇳 自私 (zìsī)
🇸🇮 sebičnost
🇮🇸 sjálfselska
🇰🇿 өзімшілдік
🇬🇪 ეგოიზმი (egoizmi)
🇦🇿 eqoizm
🇲🇽 egoísmo