Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌæl.truˈɪs.tɪk/

Definitions

• Showing a selfless concern for the well-being of others.
• Relating to or denoting behavior that benefits others at a cost to oneself.

Usage Examples

• Her altruistic actions helped many families in need during the crisis.
• He is known for his altruistic nature, always helping others without expecting anything in return.

Etymology

The word 'altruistic' derives from the French word 'altruisme,' coined by Auguste Comte, from the Italian word 'altro,' meaning 'other.'

Synonyms

• Selfless
• Unselfish
• Generous
• Humanitarian
• Compassionate

Antonyms

• Selfish
• Egoistic
• Greedy
• Self-centered
• Egocentric

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the pronunciation of "altruistic" may vary slightly based on accent. For example, in American English, the 'r' is pronounced more prominently, while in British English, it may be softer.

Historical Usage

The word 'altruistic' became popular in the 19th century through the philosophy of Auguste Comte, who emphasized the importance of selflessness in society. It has since been used to describe individuals and behaviors that prioritize the welfare of others.

Cultural Nuances

Different cultures may view altruism in various ways. In Western cultures, altruistic acts are often linked to charitable work and philanthropy, while in Eastern cultures, selflessness is seen as a virtue rooted in religious and spiritual practices, such as Buddhism and Hinduism.

More Information

Being altruistic involves placing the needs and well-being of others before one's own. While it is often seen as a noble trait, there are debates in philosophy and psychology about whether true altruism exists, as some argue that all human actions are motivated by self-interest in some way. Nonetheless, altruism plays a vital role in building social trust and creating communities where people help one another. Altruistic behavior can manifest in small acts, such as helping a neighbor, or in large-scale actions, like donating to charity or volunteering for social causes. This concept has been explored extensively in fields such as ethics, psychology, and sociology, and continues to be a key topic in understanding human behavior and social dynamics.