Egoism vs. Egotism — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 1, 2023
Egoism is a self-centered ethical philosophy, while egotism is an excessive sense of self-importance.
Difference Between Egoism and Egotism
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Egoism is the ethical stance that self-interest is the foundation of morality. In contrast, egotism refers to an excessive preoccupation with one’s own importance or achievements. Both concepts revolve around the self but differ in their application and implications.
While egoism might justify self-serving behavior as a moral right, egotism is often seen as a character flaw. Egoism can be a deliberate philosophical position, whereas egotism is generally an undesirable trait marked by arrogance.
Philosophical egoism is a theory where actions are oriented toward one's own benefit. Egotism, on the other hand, can manifest in conversation and behavior as self-absorption or vanity.
Egoism suggests self-interest as a practical way of life, implying that individuals naturally act for their own good. Egotism does not necessarily posit any moral stance; instead, it denotes an excessive, often offensive, display of self-worth.
In egoism, the pursuit of self-interest is considered rational and often necessary. Egotism, however, is criticized for overlooking others' interests and lacking humility or empathy.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Philosophical belief in self-interest.
Over-inflated sense of self-importance.
Context
Ethical theories, moral philosophy.
Personality traits, behavior.
Perception
Can be neutral or rational.
Generally viewed negatively.
Moral Implication
Can justify self-centeredness.
Implies arrogance or vanity.
Expression
In choices and actions.
In attitudes and self-expression.
Compare with Definitions
Egoism
Selfishness as a rational choice
He practices egoism by investing in his own skills and interests.
Egotism
Obsession with self-importance
Egotism makes him dismiss the ideas of his colleagues.
Egoism
Self-centeredness as moral
In egoism, helping others is only valued if it also helps oneself.
Egotism
Vanity in one’s own abilities
The actor's egotism is off-putting to his fans.
Egoism
The doctrine that self-interest underlies actions
Her egoism is evident in her strategic networking.
Egotism
Overestimation of one’s own merit
Her egotism alienates her peers.
Egoism
Ethical pursuit of self-interest
His egoism dictates that he donates only when it benefits his business.
Egotism
Excessive self-pride
His egotism is apparent when he talks only about his achievements.
Egoism
Egoism is the philosophy concerned with the role of the self, or ego, as the motivation and goal of one's own action. Different theories on egoism encompass a range of disparate ideas and can generally be categorized into descriptive or normative forms.
Egotism
Egotism is defined as the drive to maintain and enhance favorable views of oneself, and generally features an inflated opinion of one's personal features and importance distinguished by a person's amplified vision of ones self and self importance. It often includes intellectual, physical, social and other overestimations.
Egoism
The doctrine that human behavior is motivated by self-interest.
Egotism
An inflated sense of one's own importance; conceit.
Egoism
The belief that self-interest provides the proper basis for moral behavior.
Egotism
A tendency to talk excessively about oneself.
Egoism
Egotism; conceit.
Egotism
A belief that one is superior to or more important than others.
Egoism
The tendency to think selfishly with exclusive self-interest in mind.
Egotism
(countable) The result or product of being egoistic.
Egoism
(ethics) The belief that moral behavior should be directed toward one's self-interest only.
Egotism
Egoism belief that behavior should be directed towards one's self-interest.
Egoism
Egotism tendency to talk excessively about oneself.
Egotism
The practice of too frequently using the word I; hence, a speaking or writing overmuch of one's self; self-exaltation; self-praise; the act or practice of magnifying one's self or parading one's own doings. The word is also used in the sense of egoism.
His excessive egotism, which filled all objects with himself.
Egoism
The doctrine of certain extreme adherents or disciples of Descartes and Johann Gottlieb Fichte, which finds all the elements of knowledge in the ego and the relations which it implies or provides for.
Egotism
An exaggerated opinion of your own importance
Egoism
Excessive love and thought of self; the habit of regarding one's self as the center of every interest; selfishness; - opposed to altruism.
Egotism
An inflated feeling of pride in your superiority to others
Egoism
Attempting to get personal recognition for yourself (especially by unacceptable means)
Egotism
Boasting about oneself
His egotism surfaces during conversations about success.
Egoism
Philosophy focusing on self-benefit
Egoism motivates her to seek jobs that advance her career.
Common Curiosities
What does egoism advocate?
Egoism advocates for actions that advance one's own self-interest.
Is egoism inherent in human nature?
Some philosophers argue that egoism aligns with natural human behavior.
Can egoism be altruistic?
In some views, altruism can arise from egoism if helping others benefits oneself.
Does egoism dismiss the needs of others?
Not necessarily, but it prioritizes self-interest in decision-making.
Is egoism considered ethical?
Egoism is a moral philosophy that can be ethically justified, though it's debated.
How is egotism different from confidence?
Confidence is healthy self-assurance; egotism is an excessive sense of self-worth.
Can egotism affect relationships?
Yes, egotism can strain relationships due to a lack of empathy and understanding.
Is egotism a personality disorder?
Not in itself, but it can be a trait in certain personality disorders.
Does society promote egoism or egotism?
Society often rewards self-interest, which can be interpreted as promoting either trait, depending on the context.
What behavior exemplifies egotism?
Frequent boasting and disregard for others' contributions exemplify egotism.
How can one reduce egotism?
Through self-reflection, empathy development, and valuing others' viewpoints.
Is egotism always harmful?
While it can lead to negative social consequences, not all self-focus is damaging.
Are egoism and selfishness the same?
Egoism is a philosophical stance; selfishness is a trait that egoism might justify.
Can egotism be a positive trait?
While it generally has negative connotations, some argue it can drive ambition.
Do all philosophers agree on egoism?
No, it's a contentious subject with various perspectives for and against it.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
