What does egoism in ethics propose regarding human motivation?

Egoism in ethics fundamentally posits that self-interest is the primary motivator behind human actions. This philosophical view suggests that individuals are inherently driven by their own personal benefits and desires. The concept emphasizes that when making decisions, a person's main concern is how their choices will affect themselves, even if those choices also have implications for others.

This perspective is influential in discussions about moral psychology and ethical reasoning, as it asserts that motivations are often rooted in self-preservation and personal gain, regardless of the potential impact on others. Therefore, recognizing that self-interest can lead to both positive and negative outcomes in ethical decision-making is central to understanding egoism.

The other choices, while they each capture different ethical theories or principles, do not reflect the core concept of egoism. For instance, prioritizing community welfare relates more to altruism or utilitarianism, which focus on the broader implications of actions rather than individual self-interest. Ethical relativism speaks to the variability of moral standards across cultures and contexts, contrasting sharply with the individual-centric view of egoism. Lastly, maximizing overall good aligns with utilitarianism, which seeks to achieve the greatest benefit for the most people, again diverging from the self-focused premise of egoism.