egoism or egotism?
These two words, which are equally common, are often used interchangeably, though a distinction can be made. Egoism refers, in terms of philosophy, to theories in which self-interest is regarded as the principal motivating factor. And so an egoist believes an individual should seek as an end only his or her own welfare: His conduct was characterized by ruthless egoism.Egotism implies a vain self-absorption as a matter of behavior rather than an ethical principle, and an egotist is somebody who behaves in a selfish or self-centered way: Her egotism makes her ignore other people's concerns.
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