Skip to content

Egoism Quote by Max Scheler

“It is precisely the essential feature of egoism that it does not apprehend the full value of the isolated self. The egoist sees himself only with regard to the others, as a member of society who wishes to possess and acquire more than the others. Self-directedness or other-directedness have no…” quote by Max Scheler
Download Open image
““It is precisely the essential feature of egoism that it does not apprehend the full value of the isolated self. The egoist sees himself only with regard to the others, as a member of society who wishes to possess and acquire more than the others. Self-directedness or other-directedness have no essential bearing on the specific quality of love or hatred. These acts are different in themselves, quite independently of their direction””

Max Scheler

About This Quote

Source Book: Formalism of the Ethical Attitude, 1913

Egoism limits understanding of love and hatred by focusing only on self‑interest, ignoring deeper moral qualities.

In simple terms: Egoism narrows moral perception.

Key Takeaway

Recognize love and hatred beyond self‑interest.

Themes

ethics egoism love hatred

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • ethical debates
  • personal relationships
  • social policy

Key Concepts

moral philosophy self‑interest value theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can love exist without self‑interest?
  • What role does self‑interest play in moral actions?
A Different Perspective

Egoism may have adaptive social functions.

4.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Max Scheler

Explore all 30 Max Scheler quotes

More Egoism quotes

Browse all 408 Egoism quotes