Psychological egoism and ethical egoism are two related philosophical ideas about human nature and morality. According to psychological egoism, human beings are always motivated by self-interest, even in what seem to be altruistic actions. Ethical egoism, on the other hand, claims that pursuing one’s own self-interest is the proper course of action morally. Though seemingly similar, the two ideas have some important distinctions. Let’s explore what the Bible has to say about these concepts.
Psychological Egoism
Psychological egoism is a descriptive theory that claims people always act out of self-interest. Even when helping others, we do so ultimately because it makes us feel good or serves our own goals in some way. This view sees humans as fundamentally selfish, where concern for others is always secondary. The philosopher Thomas Hobbes was a major proponent of this idea, arguing that human nature is driven purely by self-interest.
At first glance, the Bible seems to support a pessimistic view of human nature. Verses like Jeremiah 17:9 say “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” And Romans 3:23 declares “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Such verses indicate humans are deeply flawed and sinful.
However, the Bible also shows humans are capable of selfless love. Jesus declared that “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). And Jesus himself made the ultimate sacrifice out of love for humanity. As 1 John 3:16 states: “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” This demonstrates altruism is possible.
Furthermore, Scripture calls followers of Christ to look beyond their own interests and serve others. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” And Jesus told his disciples: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). Dying to self and serving God and others is a core biblical principle.
Thus, while the Bible acknowledges the human tendency toward selfishness due to sin, it does not support an extreme view that people only act out of self-interest. Redemption through Christ enables humans to overcome innate selfishness and make sacrifices for others, pointing to altruism as an ideal.
Ethical Egoism
If psychological egoism makes a descriptive claim that people always act selfishly, ethical egoism makes a prescriptive claim that people should act in their own self-interest. It holds that promoting one’s own good is morally right, and should be the guiding principle for human behavior. This contrasts with other moral philosophies that suggest humans have duties to serve God or others.
Ayn Rand was a modern proponent of ethical egoism, arguing that pursuing rational self-interest is the proper moral ideal. Her objections to altruism parallel the ethical egoist view that sacrificing for others is foolish and wrong, compromising one’s own interests.
Ethical egoism has some prima facie biblical support. Passages like Matthew 22:39 say “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” suggesting love for oneself is primary. And Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 5:29 “For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it” implies caring for one’s own needs has moral weight.
However, the Bible strongly challenges ethical egoism’s claim that self-interest should be the supreme pursuit. While self-love is encouraged, Scripture constantly calls for sacrificial service and love for God and others. As Philippians 2:3-4 (quoted earlier) indicates, the interests of others are to be valued above one’s own. And Jesus criticized self-centered living in his parable of the rich fool who stored up grain just for himself, concluding that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15).
Overall, the two great commandments given by Jesus – to love God and love one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39) – fundamentally undermine ethical egoism. Loving and serving others, even at personal cost, is seen as a moral obligation. Self-sacrifice for the kingdom of God is a virtue, from Jesus laying down his life to apostles joyfully accepting persecution and martyrdom for their faith.
Therefore, while the Bible is realistic about human selfishness and affirms self-love, it does not uphold ethical egoism. Moral living involves looking beyond oneself and willingly restricting one’s own interests to care for others and fulfill God’s purposes.
Key Differences Between the Two Views
In summary, psychological egoism and ethical egoism express differing perspectives:
- Psychological egoism makes a descriptive claim that people always act in their self-interest, even when seemingly altruistic.
- Ethical egoism makes a prescriptive claim that people should pursue their own self-interest as a proper moral approach.
- Psychological egoism allows for the possibility of altruistic behavior as long as self-interest ultimately motivates it. Ethical egoism rejects altruism altogether as foolish and wrong.
- Psychological egoism sees innate selfishness as largely fixed in human nature. Ethical egoism argues rational self-interest should actively guide moral decision-making.
Both ideas directly challenge the biblical call to pursue selfless love and service to God and others. Psychological egoism paints an overly pessimistic picture of human capability for self-sacrifice. And ethical egoism directly contradicts Jesus’ teachings on taking up one’s cross and living for the kingdom of God rather than oneself. A biblical worldview affirms moral obligations beyond self-interest.
What the Bible Says About Living Beyond Oneself
Given the egoistic bent of human nature, what does the Bible prescribe as the solution? How can humans overcome innate selfishness and live in an others-centered way?
First and foremost, Scripture emphasizes that redemption through Jesus Christ provides deliverance from sin, including selfishness. When people are reconciled with God by faith, they receive a new heart with new motivations through the indwelling Holy Spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27). The love of Christ compels them to live for him (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Secondly, the Bible repeatedly stresses the need for humility. Philippians 2:3-4 tells believers to “in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” James 4:10 says “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” And Jesus exemplified humility, saying “I am gentle and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29). Cultivating humility combats human pride that feeds selfishness.
Thirdly, Scripture calls Christians to purposely consider others’ interests and meet their needs. The apostle Paul encouraged generosity among believers so that “your abundance at the present time should supply their need” (2 Corinthians 8:14). And 1 John 3:17 says “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” Looking out for others counters self-absorption.
Lastly, God’s Word urges followers of Christ to see their lives as belonging to God and his purposes. Jesus taught people to pray for God’s will to be done, not theirs (Matthew 6:10). And Paul described the dedicated life of a Christian: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). Fulfilling the Great Commission and building God’s kingdom, not one’s own, should be the aim of moral living.
In summary, the Bible provides the antidote to egoism by emphasizing the transformative power of the Gospel, the importance of humility, the call to serve others, and the higher purpose of living for God’s glory. This strikes at the root of self-centeredness plaguing the human heart.
Practical Application
How can Christians practically apply these biblical principles in overcoming egoistic tendencies?
- Pray regularly for the Holy Spirit to cultivate humility and reorient desires to align with God’s will.
- Meditate often on Scriptures about selfless service and Christ’s sacrificial example.
- Examine motivations honestly to identify and repent of selfish intent.
- Commit to giving generously to help meet needs of the poor, widows, orphans.
- Look for everyday opportunities to defer to others’ preferences rather than demanding one’s own way.
- Forgive readily when wronged rather than insisting on personal justice.
- Partner with churches in serving the community and advancing the Great Commission globally.
The consistent practice of such habits and virtues can help overcome the natural human bent toward egoism. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live beyond themselves for God’s glory.
Conclusion
Psychological egoism and ethical egoism represent secular philosophies centered on self-interest that conflict with biblical values. While Scripture acknowledges innate human selfishness, the redemptive work of Christ and the Holy Spirit’s power enable people to live selflessly, following Jesus’ example. Practicing humility, pursuing the needs of others, and living for God’s purposes all help in overcoming egoism. With the Bible’s guidance, humans can transcend self-centeredness and reflect the self-giving love of Christ.