Politics of Ethical Egoism - Essay Example

Egoism is a normal ethical position theory where moral agents are performing with a feeling of self-interest. Moral agents need to harm the desires of other people when making a specific decision. It is based on the philosophical aspects of libertarianism. One basis for the effects of doing a certain act to himself. The ethical egoist approach states that the best thing is that which suits somebody’s ego. For example, if somebody is hungry and consumes somebody else food, this is the best for them and hence they can do it. It benefits and satisfies their heart (Rachels pg. 195). In essence, one will focus to do something that is benefiting him or her without consideration of the third parties.

Most people believe that egoism aims to satisfy immediate gratification without minding the entire consequences. However, this is wrong as one first makes a simple calculation of pain after the act. Egoism does not fight against the goodwill of others but implies that the actions will be for the benefit of others as we maximize our utilities. According to psychological egoism, men receive motivation from a desire for pleasure and pain aversion.

Ethical egoism acts on a subject that people need to act on while at the same time favoring their interests. It is a normative claim. It is argued that one should not act for the benefit of himself. Another argument splits up that one can act in favor own interests even after conflicting with other people’s interests. The argument for the theory expresses that a total altruistic character is too demanding and degrading to a moral person. It further says that it is advantageous when someone pursues his or her own interests.

Theorists arguing against ethical egoism comment that it fails to provide a moral basis for conflicting parties. Moreover, it is an obligation of each person to ensure that other people fail to do the right thing if it fails to relate to the subject at hand. Ethical egoism acts on the same basis as racism. It is possible to pursue moral values and at the same time pursue self-interests. However, such an occasion is not likely to happen unless an alternative ethical system is in place. Opponents also claim that, in a world where one being is the only resident of the place, the duties will still follow him. Duties are acts dictating morals (Rabate, pg. 98).

Therefore, in the conclusion of ethical egoism, the egoist is seen as a selfish person, working to gain and satisfy his ego. It is also beneficial to act in self-interest. It benefits both parties. An example is when one wants to join a university to pursue a specific course. In the process of pursuing education, one gets a job, which also acts as a benefit to those depending upon him.

Helping others is morally right. The work done in college to help in various aspects of Miami Dabi College was beneficial to society. Despite that, theories try to fight out altruism, which is the act of being a philanthropist by aiding others without expecting a reward. However, ethical altruism does not act on the effects of self-gain but on the fact that later in life the act will assist another person. However, as we try to argue about all these theories, one fact remains: we are one and should care for the interests of other people. This realization remains the greatest reason and hence morality needs to include the needs of others.