Altruism vs. Selfishness: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 4, 2023
Altruism is selflessly acting for others' benefit, while Selfishness prioritizes one's own interests over others'.
Key Differences
Altruism represents a selfless concern for the well-being of others. It's the act of putting others' needs above one's own without expecting any return. On the contrary, Selfishness is characterized by prioritizing one's own needs, desires, or interests over those of others.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
While Altruism often leads individuals to make sacrifices for the greater good, Selfishness may cause them to act in ways that could be detrimental to others to benefit themselves.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
It's essential to recognize that Altruism is often celebrated in many cultures as it promotes cooperation and harmony. In contrast, Selfishness is frequently frowned upon since it can lead to discord and disputes within communities.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Altruism can manifest in various acts, from simple gestures like holding the door for someone to significant actions like donating a kidney. Selfishness, meanwhile, might be seen in behaviors like not sharing resources or taking more than one's fair share.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
While Altruism is often associated with empathy and compassion, Selfishness is linked to individualism and a lack of consideration for others.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Outcome
Benefits others, potentially at one's own expense
Benefits oneself, potentially at others' expense
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Examples
Donating to charity, volunteering
Not sharing, taking more than one's share
Harlon Moss
Nov 04, 2023
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Altruism and Selfishness Definitions
Altruism
Prioritizing others' needs over one's own.
She showed her Altruism by working tirelessly for the homeless shelter.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 27, 2023
Selfishness
Placing one's own needs or desires above those of others.
His Selfishness was clear when he ate the last slice of cake without asking.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 27, 2023
Altruism
The opposite of selfishness, marked by generosity and selflessness.
The community praised her Altruism when she donated her lottery winnings.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 27, 2023
Selfishness
Acts driven primarily by personal gain or benefit.
Her Selfishness prevented her from seeing the bigger picture.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Altruism
The selfless concern for the well-being of others.
The billionaire's significant donation to the hospital was an act of pure Altruism.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 27, 2023
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Selfishness
Prioritizing oneself at the expense of others.
The business's environmental harm was a result of corporate Selfishness.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 27, 2023
Altruism
A dedication to helping others, even at personal cost.
His Altruism led him to adopt several rescue animals.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Selfishness
A lack of consideration for others.
The team lost because of one player's Selfishness in not passing the ball.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
Altruism
Acts that benefit others without expecting anything in return.
The teacher's Altruism was evident when she bought supplies for her students from her pocket.
Harlon Moss
Oct 27, 2023
Selfishness
The opposite of altruism, characterized by self-centered actions.
The crowd disapproved of the athlete's Selfishness during the game.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
Selfishness
Concerned chiefly or excessively with oneself, and having little regard for others
A selfish child who wouldn't share toys.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Altruism
(Zoology) Instinctive behavior that is detrimental to the individual but favors the survival or spread of that individual's genes, as by benefiting its relatives.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Selfishness
Showing or arising from an excessive concern with oneself and a lack of concern for others
A selfish whim.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Altruism
Regard for others, both natural and moral without regard for oneself; devotion to the interests of others; brotherly kindness.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Selfishness
The quality of being selfish; the condition of putting one's own interests before those of others.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Altruism
Action or behaviour that benefits another or others at some cost to the performer.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Selfishness
The quality or state of being selfish; exclusive regard to one's own interest or happiness; that supreme self-love or self-preference which leads a person to direct his purposes to the advancement of his own interest, power, or happiness, without regarding those of others.
Selfishness, - a vice utterly at variance with the happiness of him who harbors it, and, as such, condemned by self-love.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Altruism
Regard for others, both natural and moral; devotion to the interests of others; brotherly kindness; - opposed to egoism or selfishness.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Selfishness
Stinginess resulting from a concern for your own welfare and a disregard of others
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
What does Altruism mean?
Altruism refers to selflessly acting for the benefit of others.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
How can one practice Altruism?
Volunteering, donating, or simply helping others in daily life showcases Altruism.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
How does Altruism benefit society?
Altruism promotes cooperation, harmony, and mutual support within communities.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Can Selfishness be disguised as Altruism?
Yes, sometimes actions may appear Altruistic but are driven by self-interest.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Is Selfishness always negative?
While often viewed negatively, Selfishness can sometimes be a means of self-preservation.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Can Selfishness be beneficial?
In some scenarios, Selfishness can lead to self-improvement or motivate achievement.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
Can Selfishness lead to loneliness?
Excessive Selfishness might alienate others, potentially causing loneliness.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Are humans naturally Altruistic or selfish?
This is debated, but many believe humans can exhibit both Altruism and Selfishness.
Janet White
Nov 04, 2023
Does Altruism always require sacrifice?
Not always, but Altruism often involves prioritizing others' needs.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
Can Altruism be learned?
While some believe it's innate, many think Altruism can be nurtured.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Are there degrees of Selfishness?
Yes, Selfishness can range from minor acts to significant disregard for others.
Janet White
Nov 04, 2023
What's the opposite of Altruism?
Selfishness is often considered the opposite of Altruism.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Can one be both Altruistic and selfish?
Yes, individuals can display both traits in different situations.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Why is Altruism important in society?
It fosters trust, cooperation, and a sense of community.
Harlon Moss
Nov 04, 2023
Does society promote Selfishness?
Some argue that certain aspects of modern society encourage Selfishness.
Harlon Moss
Nov 04, 2023
Can Altruism be harmful?
Extreme Altruism might lead to neglecting one's own needs.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Why do people act with Selfishness?
Reasons vary, including survival, desire for power, or lack of empathy.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Can cultures influence levels of Altruism?
Yes, cultural norms and values can shape Altruistic behaviors.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Is Altruism limited to humans?
No, some animals also display Altruistic behaviors.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
How can one reduce Selfishness?
Self-awareness, empathy training, and practicing generosity can help.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
