Egoist vs. Egotist — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 3, 2023
An egoist is someone who is self-centered and puts their own needs first. An egotist likes to talk about their accomplishments and seeks admiration.
Difference Between Egoist and Egotist
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An egoist acts according to the belief that self-interest is the foundation of morality. An egotist, meanwhile, is often found boasting about themselves. The egoist's actions are based on self-benefit, which might not always be obvious to others. The egotist makes sure everyone notices their self-perceived superiority.
The philosophy behind egoism can be rational and calculated, leading to actions that may not outwardly appear selfish. Egotism, on the other hand, is less about a philosophical stance and more about behavior and attitude that can be seen and heard.
In a group setting, an egoist might not engage much unless there's something to gain. An egotist would dominate conversations to ensure the spotlight is on them. An egoist may not care for praise as long as their needs are met, while an egotist thrives on admiration and accolades.
Despite their differences, both egoists and egotists can be challenging in relationships. While an egoist may be indifferent to others’ needs, an egotist could disregard them in pursuit of personal glory.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A person who is self-interested.
A person who often talks about themselves.
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Underlying Motivation
Self-benefit and self-advancement.
Desire for attention and admiration.
Behavior
Acts for personal gain, possibly discreetly.
Boastful and seeks to be the center of attention.
Philosophical Basis
Can be based on ethical egoism.
No philosophical basis, just behavior.
Social Interaction
May not seek social engagement unless beneficial.
Often dominates social interactions.
Compare with Definitions
Egoist
A person who operates on self-interest.
In the debate, the egoist argued for individual gains over collective benefits.
Egotist
Someone who speaks too much of themselves.
The egotist dominated the conversation with stories of his travels.
Egoist
One who prioritizes their own welfare.
The egoist chose the job that paid more, despite the ethical concerns.
Egotist
Someone who boasts about their own importance.
The egotist claimed he was the sole reason for the project's success.
Egoist
Someone who is self-centered.
The egoist ignored the charity appeal and bought a luxury car instead.
Egotist
A person excessively absorbed in themselves.
The egotist wouldn't stop talking about his achievements.
Egoist
An individual who practices egoism.
As an egoist, she believed helping others was only to make herself feel good.
Egotist
A person with an inflated sense of self-worth.
He was such an egotist that he thought he deserved a promotion after a month.
Egoist
A person who believes in self-advancement.
The egoist invested in his own start-up rather than others.
Egotist
An individual who seeks constant praise.
The egotist asked for compliments on his new watch.
Egoist
One devoted to one's own interests and advancement; an egocentric person.
Egotist
A person who is excessively conceited or absorbed in themselves; self-seeker
He is a self-absorbed egotist
Egoist
An egotist.
Egotist
A conceited, boastful person.
Egoist
An adherent of egoism.
Egotist
A selfish, self-centered person.
Egoist
An advocate of egoism.
Egotist
A person who talks excessively about themself.
Egoist
An egocentric or self-centered person.
Egotist
A person who believes in his or her own importance or superiority.
Egoist
An egotist person who talks excessively about themself.
Egotist
An egoist advocate of egoism.
Egoist
One given overmuch to egoism or thoughts of self.
I, dullard egoist, taking no special recognition of such nobleness.
Egotist
One addicted to egotism; one who speaks much of himself or magnifies his own achievements or affairs.
Egoist
A believer in egoism.
Egotist
A conceited and self-centered person
Egoist
A conceited and self-centered person
Egoist
A self-centered person with little regard for others
Common Curiosities
Is egoism an ethical philosophy?
Yes, egoism can be an ethical philosophy focused on self-interest as a virtue.
Are egotists always aware of their behavior?
Egotists may not always be aware; they might simply be acting on natural inclinations.
Is egoism always negative?
Not necessarily; it depends on how one's self-interest affects others.
Are all self-centered people egoists?
Not all; being self-centered doesn't always align with the philosophical stance of egoism.
Can egoists form meaningful relationships?
Egoists can form relationships, but they might prioritize their own interests.
Do egotists like to lead conversations?
Yes, egotists often like to lead and steer conversations to highlight themselves.
Do egotists make good leaders?
Egotists may strive for leadership but might not always consider the team's best interests.
Can egotism be a symptom of insecurity?
Yes, sometimes egotism can stem from an underlying sense of insecurity.
Does egotism have any philosophical underpinnings?
No, egotism is generally considered a personality trait, not a philosophy.
How can you deal with an egotist?
It often requires patience and setting clear boundaries.
Is it possible for egotists to be humble?
While contradictory, egotists can sometimes display humility, though it may not be genuine.
Can an egoist be altruistic?
An egoist can engage in altruism if they believe it ultimately benefits themselves.
Are egoists good in team settings?
Egoists can be challenging in teams unless the goals align with their self-interest.
Can an egotist change their ways?
With self-awareness and effort, an egotist can learn to temper their behavior.
Do egoists lack empathy?
Egoists might not lack empathy but may choose not to act on it unless it serves them.
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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.
