egoist

An egoist is a person who places their own interests and desires above those of others. In everyday language the term often carries a negative connotation, describing someone regarded as self-centered or self-absorbed. The word derives from the Latin ego, meaning “I,” and has appeared in English since early modern times. In philosophy and intellectual contexts, egoism refers to theories that center on self-interest as a fundamental motive or principle.

Philosophical egoism is usually discussed in two main forms. Psychological egoism is a descriptive claim that all human actions are ultimately motivated by self-interest, even when people appear to act benevolently. Ethical egoism is a normative position arguing that individuals ought to act in ways that maximize their own self-interest; proponents differ on whether this should be understood as a rational long-term strategy or as a universal moral guideline. Variants include personal ethical egoism and more comprehensive forms, and the theory is often contrasted with altruism and with other ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism. The topic also intersects with historical debates on human motivation and morality, with figures such as Max Stirner associated with egoist ideas in the 19th century.

In cultural usage, the term has appeared as part of titles and movements. The Egoist was a British literary magazine founded in 1914 by Dora Marsden, associated with early modernist writing. In contemporary usage, calling someone an egoist generally implies a judgment about their self-centered behavior rather than a formal philosophical stance, though some contexts reference the more technical distinction between psychological and ethical egoism. Related concepts include selfishness, narcissism, ego, and altruism.