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How does egoism compare and contrast to other ethical theories like utilitarianism or deontology?

Park Yashunin

Egoism, as an ethical theory, is often compared and contrasted with other ethical theories such as utilitarianism or deontology. While these theories share some common goals, they also have significant differences in their underlying principles.

Utilitarianism is a consequentialist ethical theory that emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number of people. According to this theory, the morality of an action is determined by its ability to produce the greatest overall happiness or pleasure for the largest number of people. In contrast, egoism is a non-consequentialist ethical theory that focuses on the self-interest of the individual as the determining factor for moral decisions. In other words, egoism is concerned with maximizing individual happiness or self-interest, while utilitarianism is concerned with maximizing overall happiness or pleasure.

Deontology, on the other hand, is a non-consequentialist ethical theory that emphasizes moral duties and obligations. According to this theory, moral actions must be performed for their intrinsic value and not merely for their consequences. In contrast, egoism is concerned with the individual's self-interest as the determining factor for moral decisions, rather than duties or obligations.

One of the primary differences between egoism and utilitarianism or deontology is their focus on individual versus collective interests. Utilitarianism and deontology prioritize the greater good or moral obligations over individual interests, while egoism focuses on the individual's self-interest as the priority. This difference can be seen in various ethical dilemmas, such as whether it is morally justifiable to lie to protect oneself. Utilitarianism would argue that it may be acceptable to lie in certain circumstances if it brings overall happiness, while deontology would likely argue that it is never morally acceptable to lie, regardless of the circumstances. Egoism would argue that lying is morally justifiable if it benefits the individual's self-interest.

Another significant difference is their approach to reasoning. Utilitarianism and deontology rely on moral reasoning that is rooted in principles and values, while egoism relies on reasoning that is based on individual interests. This difference can be seen in ethical dilemmas that require balancing individual interests with a broader public good. Utilitarianism would approach these dilemmas by considering how the outcomes of various actions affect the most significant number of people and then making a decision based on that analysis. Deontology would approach these dilemmas by assessing whether an action violates a moral duty or obligation. Egoism, however, would approach these dilemmas by considering how each decision affects the individual's self-interest.

In conclusion, while egoism has some similarities to utilitarianism and deontology, these theories differ significantly in their approach to moral decision-making. Egoism is focused on individual self-interest as the primary factor for moral decision-making, while utilitarianism emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number and deontology emphasizes moral duties and obligations. As a user of a social network, it is essential to understand these theoretical differences to make informed moral decisions and engage in meaningful ethical conversations with others.