Egoism Flashcards
What does altruism mean? How does it contrast egoism?
Selfless concern for the well-being of others, focusing on the consequences of actions on other people. Whereas egoism only considers the consequences of the action in regards to the moral agent.
What is Ethical Egoism?
The normative view holding that all action ought to be motivated by self interest. It explains how we should behaviour.
What is psychological egoism?
The descriptive view that explains how all human behaviour is actually motivated by self interest to maximise their own pleasure.
What type of ethic is egoism?
A normative view, meaning it’s focused on giving the moral agent (humans) a guide on what is right and wrong through an understanding of ‘normal’ behaviour.
What philosopher is associated with the extension egoism and what did he believe humans were controlled by?
Max Stirner, ‘spooks’ which control things such as religion and desire. It’s an internal subconscious motivators.
What should moral agents do when faced with a moral dilemma?
They should do what’s in their own self interest by considering the consequences of their actions.
What’s a positive outcome of egoism?
It matches human psychological needs to maximise their own personal pleasure
What does psychological egoism explain and what’s an example?
The view that all humans act selfishly regardless of whether it seems to be altruistic. This means they are still motivated by personal benefits ie donating to charity to impress a partner or peers. It puts forward the argument does a selfless deed exist and altruism is an illusion.
What are Rands thoughts on altruism?
That it leads to the denial of the value of the individual whereas ethical egoism views the individuals life as having supreme value.
What criticism of egoism focuses on pleasure?
It’s argued egoism is short sighted and it doesn’t always provide for the best long term outcome of the moral agent. As an example staying in bed all day may seem to give pleasure in the moment but it causes long term effects of laziness and mental health issues. It’s too focused on instant gratification rather than short term sacrifices for long term pleasure.
What’s a real life example of a person ‘altruistic’ action for their own benefit?
Mother Teresa helping the poor to be rewarded in heaven
Why would egoism not lead to social disorder?
By choosing actions that will not negatively impact you in the future ie not being violent as they might be violent back or not lying because then you might be lied to
What is an egoist not?
An egotist (thinks they are better than everyone) Am egoist accepts their own uniqueness whilst respecting others
How is egoism a good long term theory?
Consider how your action affect you long term
ie giving to a charity that helps fight climate change makes you feel good short term and long term protects the planet you live on
What is a union of egoists?
A group of egoists working together to achieve a common goal and then dispersing when this has been achieved
