opportunism

Opportunism is the practice of exploiting circumstances for personal gain, often by prioritizing short-term benefits over consistent principles or long-term commitments. The term carries a normative judgement and is usually used to criticize behavior thought to be self-serving, adaptable, or lacking integrity.

In politics and business, opportunism describes shifting positions to capitalize on favorable trends or crises, renegotiating terms after agreements have been made, or exploiting regulatory gaps and market conditions. It can be seen in how politicians align with popular opinion or how firms pursue mergers, subsidies, or patented monopolies to maximize profits.

In economics and game theory, opportunistic behavior refers to maximizing utility when others’ actions and information are uncertain, often at the expense of others. In biology, opportunistic organisms or pathogens take advantage of weakened hosts or favorable environments, enabling rapid growth or infection.

Opinions on opportunism vary. Critics argue that opportunism undermines trust, erodes cooperative norms, and damages institutions. Proponents contend that opportunistic adjustment can be rational and adaptive in changing environments, allowing individuals and organizations to respond to new information and incentives, provided actions remain transparent or justifiable.

The term comes from Latin opportunus, meaning favorable or well-timed, and entered English in the 19th century to describe flexible or advantageous behavior.