Altruism
The belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Altruism describes the motivation behind truly selfless acts, where one acts solely for the benefit of others, without expectation of personal gain or reward, even at potential cost to oneself.
Word relationships
- Selflessness: Direct synonym, emphasizing the lack of self-interest.
- Benevolence: General goodwill, but doesn't necessarily imply self-sacrifice.
- Egoism: Excessive concern for one's own self-interest.
- Selfishness: Concern only for oneself.
Word family
- altruistic (adjective): Showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.
- altruistically (adverb): In an altruistic manner.
Collocations
- pure altruism
- genuine altruism
- act of altruism
- spirit of altruism
- evolutionary altruism
Example sentences
- "His decision to risk his own life to save a stranger was an extraordinary act of altruism." Discussing a selfless act of heroism.
- "While some might give for tax benefits, true philanthropy is often rooted in genuine altruism." Analyzing the motivations behind charitable giving.
Memory hook
Think 'ALT' (alternate) and 'TRUE' (true concern). True concern for the 'alternate' (other) person. Selfless concern for others
When not to use
Don't use 'altruism' if there's any hint of self-interest, even indirect (like wanting to feel good about oneself, or gaining public recognition). It implies pure selflessness.
Fun facts
- Auguste Comte, the philosopher who coined 'altruism,' is also considered the founder of sociology.
- The concept of altruism is a major topic of study in philosophy, psychology, and evolutionary biology.
Related words
Explore more words
altruistic, selfless, philanthropist, benevolent, compassionate, devoted
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