égoïstes

Égoïstes is the French plural noun used to refer to people who are chiefly concerned with their own interests and needs. As a noun, it can describe individuals perceived as self-centered; as an adjective, égoïste means selfish. The abstract noun égoïsme denotes selfishness or egoism. The term derives from the French égoïste, ultimately from Latin ego “I.” The word entered many languages and influenced English usage, giving terms such as egoist and egoism.

In philosophy, egoism refers to theories about self-interest as a motive or norm. Psychological egoism holds that all human actions are ultimately motivated by self-interest, even when they appear altruistic. Ethical egoism, by contrast, is a normative position asserting that individuals ought to act in their own best interests. The everyday French use of égoïste typically denotes ordinary selfishness rather than a strict philosophical position.

Égoïstes may be used descriptively in social criticism or literature; the term carries negative connotations but is not always applied academically. Related terms include égoïsme (selfishness) and narcissism; while égoïste emphasizes behavior, narcissism refers to a more fixed personality trait or condition.