altruism
UK[ˈæltruɪzəm]US[ˈæltruɪzəm]
n
The principle or practice of unselfish concern for the welfare of others.
n
An ethical doctrine that regards the good of others as the end of moral action.
Morpheme Breakdown
altru
ism
altru
other
ism
doctrine
Etymology
The word 'altruism' is a modern philosophical coinage, created in the 19th century by the French philosopher Auguste Comte. He derived it from the Italian altrui or the French autrui, both meaning "others" or "other people," which trace back to the Latin alter, meaning "the other (of two)." Comte combined this root with the Greek-derived suffix "-ism" to form a term for his ethical doctrine, which positioned living for others as the antithesis of egoism. Thus, the literal construction "other-ism" perfectly encapsulates the abstract concept of selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Analysis
Structure: altru (other) + ism (doctrine)
- altru: From French autrui (meaning "others"), itself from Latin alteri (dative form of alter, meaning "other").
- ism: A suffix of Greek origin via Latin, used to form nouns indicating a distinctive system, theory, or practice.
Examples
Her lifelong altruism was evident in her dedication to charitable work.
True altruism involves helping others without expecting any reward.
Some scientists debate whether pure altruism exists in human behavior.