Question #1: In your own words, describe the core features of egoism. How does this theory work?

What
does it argue about the nature of ethical deliberation?
Egoism is an ethical theory that places self-interest at its core. In simple terms, it argues that
individuals should make decisions and take actions that focus on their own happiness and well-
being above all else. Ethical deliberation in the context of egoism centers on the belief that our
primary moral duty is to ourselves. This means that acting in our self-interest is not only
acceptable but is, in fact, the right thing to do.
Egoism posits that humans are naturally inclined to seek their own happiness and fulfillment. It
asserts that our actions should be guided by what benefits us the most, and that pursuing our self-
interest is morally justifiable. While egoism acknowledges that people may sometimes engage in
activities that help others, it contends that such actions are ultimately driven by the anticipation
of personal gain or satisfaction.
This theory works on the premise that individuals should be motivated primarily by what serves
their best interests. It encourages people to consider the potential benefits or drawbacks of their
actions on themselves and make choices accordingly.
However, egoism is not without its critics. They argue that it can lead to selfishness, self-
centeredness, and a lack of empathy for others. Critics contend that this ethical perspective can
undermine the importance of compassion, altruism, and moral considerations for the well-being
of society as a whole. It can also be at odds with principles of fairness and justice, which often
require individuals to consider the welfare of others in their decision-making.
In conclusion, egoism is an ethical theory that underscores self-interest as the guiding principle
for moral decision-making. It says that individuals should prioritize their own happiness and
well-being, and it contends that actions should primarily serve one's personal interests. While it
acknowledges that people may engage in acts of kindness, egoism argues that these acts are
ultimately rooted in self-interest. Critics argue that this perspective can potentially lead to
selfishness and may not align with the broader principles of ethics and social responsibility.

Question #2: How in your own life have you used this approach to ethics (or seen others use this
approach)? What were the results? What does this tell you about this approach to ethics?
In my own life I have used and also seen this approach to ethics. Egoism puts you ahead of
everyone else including your friends in this scenario. When I was in high school, I was a pretty
good basketball player. I grew up in Grand Forks and we had our own traveling basketball team.
In 9th and 10th grade we would travel around North Dakota and Minnesota playing tournaments
that we would usually do quite well in. Eventually at one of these tournaments I got recruited to
play for a different traveling team out of Bismark that travels around the country playing in
bigger tournaments to get the athletes exposure. I saw this as a big opportunity for me.
I ended up taking this opportunity leaving my friends and my current traveling team behind
because I thought this would give me a better opportunity to go to college. I had to put myself
ahead of my friends that I grew up with my whole life. I do think it was a little selfish but also
something I would regret if I never took. The results of doing this made me feel down for a
couple days. I felt bad for not playing with my friends anymore and for hurting their traveling
team but eventually I got over it and became excited for the new experience. This tells me that
it's okay to have this approach to ethics because you sometimes must put yourself first in real
life.
I have also seen this approach with my dad. My dad is currently the ice cream man in town and
works long days in the summer. He is a cop from 9am – 4pm and then instantly gets home and
goes into the ice cream truck from 4:30pm – 9pm. After having these days all week, it can really
have a negative effect on someone. No one should have to work this number of hours, but he
does it for the family. Eventually this last summer it was too much, and my dad said he needed
some time off. He took the egoist approach and took the next week off for himself. This meant
that some kids would be disappointed the ice cream man didn’t come by that week.
The results of this made my dad feel human again and be in a happier mood. It was definitely a
good thing he took the week off and he deserved it after all his hard work. This is also an
example of how egoism can be a good thing sometimes.

Question #3: What do you think is the single biggest problem or challenge that this theory has? Why
might this approach not be the best approach to ethics?
The single biggest problem or challenge with egoism as an approach to ethics is that it can lead
to selfishness and a lack of consideration for the well-being of others. Egoism suggests that
individuals should prioritize their own interests above all else, which can result in actions that
benefit oneself but harm or disregard the needs and feelings of others. This self-centered focus
can lead to a breakdown of trust, cooperation, and empathy in relationships and communities.
One of the key issues with egoism is that it doesn't provide a clear framework for addressing
moral dilemmas where self-interest conflicts with the greater good. For example, if everyone
were to solely pursue their own interests without considering the consequences for others, it
could lead to a society marked by competition, inequality, and a lack of collective well-being.
Egoism often overlooks the importance of fairness and cooperation in creating a just and
harmonious society.
Another challenge is that the pursuit of self-interest can sometimes lead to short-sighted
decisions. People might focus on immediate personal gains, even if they are detrimental to their
long-term well-being or that of others. This can result in poor decision-making and a lack of
consideration for the consequences of one's actions.
While self-care and personal happiness are important, ethics also involves considering the needs
and welfare of others. Egoism, by placing the self above all else, tends to neglect this vital aspect
of ethical deliberation.
In summary, the primary issue with egoism as an ethical approach is its potential to encourage
selfishness, undermine the importance of compassion and cooperation, and disregard the well-
being of others. It does not offer a comprehensive framework for resolving moral conflicts
between self-interest and the greater good, which is why many people and ethicists find it
lacking as a complete approach to ethics.