Selfishness

High school (ages 12+)
Philosophy & Big Questions

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/selfishness

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the psychological correlates?Often associated with a lack of empathy, narcissistic tendencies, and interpersonal difficulties
2. What does selfish mean?Selfish means putting your own needs and wants first, even if it hurts others. It is more than just looking after yourself; it ignores others' feelings.
3. How is selfishness different from taking care of yourself?Taking care of yourself is good and helps you feel healthy. Selfishness is when you ignore others while only thinking about yourself.

Egoism: A philosophical theory that individuals are motivated by self-interest.
Enlightened Self-Interest: Pursuing one's own good in a way that also benefits others.
Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.