Definitions
- Referring to the act of selflessly helping others without expecting anything in return. - Talking about a behavior that prioritizes the well-being of others over one's own interests. - Describing a philosophy or belief system that values the welfare of others above personal gain.
- Referring to the act of doing good or being kind to others. - Talking about a disposition or attitude of goodwill towards others. - Describing a behavior that is motivated by a desire to promote the well-being of others.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to positive behaviors towards others.
- 2Both words involve a focus on the well-being of others.
- 3Both words are associated with kindness and generosity.
- 4Both words can be used to describe actions, attitudes, or beliefs.
What is the difference?
- 1Motivation: Altruism is motivated by a selfless desire to help others, while benevolence may be motivated by a desire to do good or promote well-being, but not necessarily at the expense of one's own interests.
- 2Scope: Altruism often involves significant sacrifices or efforts, while benevolence can encompass smaller acts of kindness or goodwill.
- 3Philosophy: Altruism is often associated with a broader philosophy or belief system that values the welfare of others above personal gain, while benevolence may be more situational or context-dependent.
- 4Expectations: Altruism involves no expectation of reward or recognition, while benevolence may involve some expectation of gratitude or appreciation.
- 5Connotation: Altruism is often associated with heroic or exceptional acts of selflessness, while benevolence is more commonly associated with everyday acts of kindness or goodwill.
Remember this!
Altruism and benevolence both refer to positive behaviors towards others, but differ in their motivation, scope, philosophy, expectations, and connotation. Altruism involves selfless acts of helping others without any expectation of reward or recognition, often motivated by a broader philosophy that values the welfare of others above personal gain. Benevolence, on the other hand, involves acts of kindness or goodwill towards others, motivated by a desire to do good or promote well-being, but not necessarily at the expense of one's own interests.
