Selbstsucht, das ausschl. am eig. Nutzen orientierte u. das eig. Wohl auf Kosten anderer fördernde Handeln; Ggs.: Altruismus.
ETYM French égoďsme, from Latin -ego I. Related to I, Egotism.
Attempting to get personal recognition for oneself (especially by unacceptable means); SYN. egocentrism, self-interest, self-concern, self-centeredness.
Doctrine that the pursuit of self-interest is the highest good.
In ethics, the doctrine that we seek only our enlightened self-interest and that all our desires are self-referential. Notable ethical theorists who have held versions of egoism are Aristotle, Thomas Hobbes, and Benedict Spinoza.
Stinginess resulting from a concern for one's own welfare and a disregard of others.