* Egoism focuses on individual self-interest. Egoistic theories argue that the ultimate moral good is maximizing one's own happiness or well-being. Actions are right or wrong based on whether they benefit the individual performing them.
* Utilitarianism focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number. It's a consequentialist theory that judges the morality of an action based on its consequences. The right action is the one that produces the most happiness or well-being for the largest number of people, even if it means sacrificing the happiness of a few.
Key Differences:
* Focus: Egoism is individual-centered, while utilitarianism is society-centered.
* Motivation: Egoism emphasizes self-interest, while utilitarianism emphasizes the well-being of all.
* Consequences: Egoism considers the consequences for the individual, while utilitarianism considers the consequences for everyone affected.
Example:
Imagine a situation where a doctor has to choose between saving one patient with a rare blood type or using that same blood to save five other patients.
* Egoism: The doctor might choose to save the patient with the rare blood type if that patient is a close friend or family member, prioritizing personal connection over the greater good.
* Utilitarianism: The doctor would likely choose to save the five patients, as this would maximize overall happiness and well-being.
Conclusion:
While utilitarianism may sometimes require individuals to act in ways that don't directly benefit themselves, it's fundamentally about maximizing happiness and well-being for the whole, making it a fundamentally altruistic, not egoistic, theory.