The Construction of Virtues in Egoism

Abstract

This study examines one of humanity’s oldest debates -the conflict between our own desires and societal expectations- through the lens of egoism. In daily life, the word ‘egoist’ is often perceived as an insult, used to describe rude, selfish individuals who disregard others. However, this study aims to demonstrate that the egoist, as the agent of egoism, is not merely a character flaw but an ethical agent based on rational foundations. At the beginning of the study, a distinction is made to clear the conceptual confusion. The differences between a true egoist, the self-absorbed 'egotist,' and the pathologically 'narcissist' are highlighted. This distinction is crucial because egoism is not about harming others; it is about the individual regarding their own life and happiness as the highest value. In the following sections, different types of egoism are examined. It explains the transition from psychological egoism, which claims humans naturally seek their own interest, to ethical egoism, which defends this as a ‘moral duty,’ and ultimately to rational egoism. The core issue here is not just that a person thinks of their own interest, but how they should do so within a rational system. At the center of the study lies the famous philosopher Ayn Rand and her theory of Rational Egoism. According to Rand, happiness is not something gained by chance, but a success achieved through one’s own effort and virtues. From Rand’s perspective, when an individual builds their own values and exercises their mind, they can remain a consistent and peaceful ‘hero’ within themselves, even if they fail in the external world. In summary, by analyzing the fundamental arguments of egoism, this study aims to explain how a virtuous life can be built from Rand’s perspective.