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Essay / Psychological Egoism Theory - 2106
The psychological egoism theory is indeed plausible. The meaning of plausible in the context of this article refers to the validity or conceivability of the theory in question, to explain the nature and motivation of human behavior (Hinman, 2007). Human actions are motivated by the satisfaction obtained after completing a task in which they are involved. For example, Mother Teresa was satisfied with her benevolent actions and activities that she spent her life doing. As Hinman (2007) points out, her activity was likely to decrease if she experienced any dissatisfaction in her efforts. Therefore, no matter how much altruism theorists try to discuss the degree to which an action is inclined toward non-self-interest, two can never be separated (Hinman, 2007). This is the nature of human behavior: we are all motivated by self-interest in any action we take. Hugh (1898) observed that altruistic actions are a disguised form of pleasure seeking in human beings. This article will explore the points that support the theory of this theory with expounded explanations that endorse the plausibility of the psychological egoism theory. It will also examine ancient ideas and compare them to modern ideas. This essay will further discuss the theory of psychological egoism which is descriptive and carries the doctrine that the weak side of psychological egoism enhances objectivity. The theory of psychological egoism is descriptive in nature. It conveys the doctrine that every action performed by a person involves personal interests. It is the nature of human beings that has a motivation that serves the well-being of the agent. People hide their motives from others to serve their interest in maintaining contact... middle of paper ...... hey, need. Selfishness and morality work hand in hand and people can be trained to conform to certain rules that will give them more pleasure. However, the egoism theory has some shortcomings in that it is ambiguous on certain issues. References Hinman, L.M. (2007). Ethics, a plural approach, 4th edition. New York: Wadsworth Publishing Company. Hugh, L. (1988). The truth about psychological egoism: reason and responsibility. New York: Wadsworth. Michael, S. (1978). Empirical basis for psychological egoism brainstorming. California: Bradford. p72-3. John, R. (1971). The circumstances of justice: selfishness in context. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Smith, C. M. (1898). Psychological and political ethics. New York: Hafner Press. Feinberg, J. (1998). Psychological egoism in ethics: history, theory and contemporary issues. Oxford: Oxford University Press.