altruism
AL-troo-iz-um
/ˈæltruɪzəm/
The belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Focuses on the internal motivation (selflessness) rather than just the act of giving.
The story behind the word. The word was coined in the 19th century by the French philosopher Auguste Comte. He based it on the Italian 'altrui,' which came from the Latin 'alter' (other). He wanted a word that was the exact opposite of 'egoism.'
Word relationships
- selflessness: Selflessness is the quality; altruism is the formal philosophy or practice of it.
- benevolence: Benevolence is a general desire to do good; altruism specifically implies doing good at a cost to oneself.
- egoism: Egoism is the practice of putting one's own interests first.
- selfishness: Selfishness is the lack of consideration for others, the direct opposite of altruism.
Commonly confused with
- philanthropy: Philanthropy usually involves giving money or resources on a large scale; altruism is the personal mindset of selflessness.
Word family
- altruist (noun): A person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others.
- altruistic (adjective): Showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Collocations
- pure altruism
- reciprocal altruism
- act of altruism
- effective altruism
Example sentences
- "Altruism is the inner drive that can't be explained by evolution alone, according to some philosophers." Scientific perspective on human nature.
- "The stranger's altruism was evident when he spent his entire afternoon helping the family fix their broken-down car." Everyday kindness.
Memory hook
Altruism is for 'All' 'True' 'Us'—putting others before 'I'. All for others.
When not to use
Do not use for acts where the person expects a reward or public recognition, as that contradicts the 'selfless' nature of altruism.
Fun facts
- In biology, 'reciprocal altruism' describes animals helping each other with the expectation that the favor will be returned later.
Related words
Explore more words
altruistic, selfless, philanthropist, benevolent, compassionate, devoted
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