Words of Positivity
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Altruism

n.kind, thoughtfulformal

What it means

Concern for others' well-being that is not driven by personal gain.

Reach for it when describing a motive that places another person's benefit first

Quiet altruism kept the free pantry stocked through winter.

Choose between these

6
  • everyday

    generosity

    freely giving resources or attention is visible

    not when Generosity may bring status, pleasure, or reciprocal benefit.

  • warm

    compassion

    suffering moves someone to care

    not when Compassion is an emotion and need not produce altruistic action.

  • warm

    selflessness

    lack of self-interest is the defining trait

    not when Selflessness can imply unhealthy neglect of legitimate personal needs.

  • professional

    public spirit

    action benefits the wider community

    not when Public spirit can align with reputation or civic duty rather than pure altruism.

  • formal

    benevolence

    kind intention toward others matters

    not when Benevolence can remain paternal or inactive.

  • formal

    philanthropy

    organized giving of private resources is the method

    not when Philanthropy can preserve power and does not prove altruistic motive.

Said against

3
  • selfishness
  • egoism
  • greed

It naturally appears in

3
  • act of altruism

    Donating the anonymous prize was an act of altruism.

  • pure altruism

    The study asks whether pure altruism can be measured.

  • everyday altruism

    Everyday altruism appeared in meals shared with isolated neighbors.