Altruism vs. Hedonism — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 29, 2023
Altruism is the selfless concern for the well-being of others. Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure and self-indulgence as the highest good.
Difference Between Altruism and Hedonism
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Altruism and Hedonism are philosophies rooted in contrasting motivations. While Altruism emphasizes the well-being and happiness of others, often at one's own expense, Hedonism seeks personal pleasure and avoids personal pain as the primary objectives of human life.
When one acts out of Altruism, they put others' needs before their own, sometimes even sacrificing their personal interests. Hedonism, in contrast, prioritizes one's own sensory pleasure and emotional satisfaction, emphasizing personal gratification.
Altruism is often linked to acts of charity, kindness, and selflessness. For instance, philanthropists and volunteers often act out of altruistic motives. Hedonism, on the other hand, can be associated with indulging in luxuries, seeking out experiences that provide pleasure, and avoiding situations that cause discomfort.
In ethical discussions, Altruism is viewed as the antithesis of selfishness, suggesting a moral virtue. Hedonism, while not inherently immoral, can lead to excessive self-indulgence, which might sometimes be viewed critically, especially if it negatively impacts others.
While both Altruism and Hedonism can be seen as paths to happiness, their routes are distinct. Altruism finds joy in serving and uplifting others, believing in a collective happiness, while Hedonism pursues personal happiness, focusing on individual satisfaction.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Selfless concern for others' well-being.
Pursuit of personal pleasure as the highest good.
Motivation
Others' happiness and well-being.
Personal pleasure and avoidance of pain.
Ethical Stance
Generally viewed as a moral virtue.
Neutral but can be criticized if excessive.
Associated Acts
Charity, kindness, self-sacrifice.
Indulgence, luxury, seeking pleasurable experiences.
Primary Focus
Collective happiness and well-being.
Individual satisfaction and happiness.
Compare with Definitions
Altruism
Behavior that benefits others at one's own expense.
His donation showcased pure altruism.
Hedonism
Pursuit of personal happiness and sensual pleasure.
Their vacation was a deep dive into beachside hedonism.
Altruism
The opposite of selfishness in ethical discussions.
Society thrives when altruism prevails over self-centeredness.
Hedonism
An ethical theory advocating pleasure as the sole or chief good in life.
Critics argue that unchecked hedonism can lead to societal problems.
Altruism
Selfless concern for the happiness of others.
Her act of generosity was a perfect example of altruism.
Hedonism
Emphasis on personal gratification and luxuries.
The spa retreat was a testament to her hedonism.
Altruism
Acts done without expecting any return.
His assistance was an act of genuine altruism.
Hedonism
Avoidance of pain and discomfort.
His hedonism made him avoid confrontational situations.
Altruism
Altruism is the principle and moral practice of concern for happiness of other human beings or other animals, resulting in a quality of life both material and spiritual. It is a traditional virtue in many cultures and a core aspect of various religious traditions and secular worldviews, though the concept of "others" toward whom concern should be directed can vary among cultures and religions.
Hedonism
Hedonism refers to a family of theories, all of which have in common that pleasure plays a central role in them. Psychological or motivational hedonism claims that our behavior is determined by desires to increase pleasure and to decrease pain.
Altruism
Unselfish concern for the welfare of others; selflessness.
Hedonism
The pursuit of pleasure; sensual self-indulgence.
Altruism
(Zoology) Instinctive behavior that is detrimental to the individual but favors the survival or spread of that individual's genes, as by benefiting its relatives.
Hedonism
Pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.
Altruism
Regard for others, both natural and moral without regard for oneself; devotion to the interests of others; brotherly kindness.
Hedonism
(Philosophy) The ethical doctrine holding that only what is pleasant or has pleasant consequences is intrinsically good.
Altruism
Action or behaviour that benefits another or others at some cost to the performer.
Hedonism
(Psychology) The doctrine holding that behavior is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of pain.
Altruism
Regard for others, both natural and moral; devotion to the interests of others; brotherly kindness; - opposed to egoism or selfishness.
Hedonism
The belief that pleasure or happiness is the highest good in life. Some hedonists, such as the Epicureans, have insisted that pleasure of the entire mind, not just pleasure of the senses, is the highest good.
Altruism
The quality of unselfish concern for the welfare of others
Hedonism
(countable) A general devotion to the pursuit of pleasure.
Altruism
Prioritizing the well-being of others over oneself.
Altruism led her to volunteer at the shelter every weekend.
Hedonism
The doctrine of the Hedonic sect; the pursuit of pleasure as a matter of ethical principle.
Hedonism
The ethical theory which finds the explanation and authority of duty in its tendency to give pleasure.
Hedonism
The pursuit of pleasure as a matter of ethical principle
Hedonism
An ethical system that evaluates the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good
Hedonism
The belief that pleasure is the highest good.
Hedonism drives him to travel the world for culinary delights.
Common Curiosities
Is Altruism always self-sacrificing?
Generally, Altruism involves putting others' needs above one's own, which can sometimes involve self-sacrifice.
Does Hedonism always involve physical pleasures?
No, Hedonism can also involve emotional and intellectual pleasures.
Can Altruism have benefits for the giver?
Yes, acts of Altruism can provide emotional satisfaction and a sense of purpose to the giver.
Can someone be both altruistic and hedonistic?
Yes, individuals can exhibit Altruism in some aspects of their life and Hedonism in others.
Can Hedonism be seen as selfish?
While Hedonism focuses on personal pleasure, it's not inherently selfish. It becomes problematic if it negatively impacts others.
Is Altruism innate or learned?
This is debated, but many believe Altruism can be both innate and cultivated.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
