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altruism

AL-troo-iz-um /ˈæltruɪzəm/

nounC1GRESATGMAT

academicpsychologicalgeneral

The belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.

In biology, altruism refers to behavior by an animal that is not beneficial to itself but benefits others of its species.

The story behind the word. Coined by the French philosopher Auguste Comte in the 19th century. He derived it from the Italian 'altrui' (to others), which itself came from the Latin 'alter' (other). It was intended to be the scientific opposite of 'egoism.'

Word relationships

selflessness: Selflessness is the quality of not being selfish; altruism is the active practice of putting others first.

egoism: The habit of valuing everything only in reference to one's personal interest.

Commonly confused with

philanthropy: Philanthropy usually involves donating money or resources on a large scale; altruism is the underlying motivation of selflessness.

Word family

altruistic (adjective): Showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
altruist (noun): A person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others.

Collocations

pure altruism
reciprocal altruism
act of altruism

Example sentences

"The decision to become a living kidney donor for a stranger is an act of pure altruism." Organ donation.
"Altruism is the opposite of egoism." Sociological theory.

Memory hook

Altruism is for 'All True' people who care about others. Others first.

When not to use

Don't use it for simple kindness where there is an expected reward or social gain.

Fun facts

Evolutionary biologists struggle to explain altruism, as it seems to contradict the 'survival of the fittest'—yet it is observed in many species, from bees to humans.