Altruism

Altruism is the English form of the Fr. altruisme, a word formed by Comte from the Ital. altrui, 'of or to others;' and, introduced into English by the translators and followers of Comte, has gradually come into more general use. It is opposed to egoism or selfishness, and means unselfishness or devotion to the welfare of others as a principle of action or an element of character. See ETHICS, UTILITARIANISM, &c.