Definition
The term rule egoism is not widely recognized as a distinct philosophical doctrine in mainstream academic literature. It appears to be a provisional label that would denote a normative ethical view in which one follows general rules that are believed to promote one’s own self‑interest, analogous to the way rule utilitarianism bases moral action on rules that maximize overall utility.
Overview
Because reliable encyclopedic sources do not provide a dedicated entry for rule egoism, its precise scope, historical development, and systematic formulation remain unclear. The concept can be inferred as an attempt to blend the egoist focus on the agent’s welfare with a rule‑based framework, suggesting that individuals should adopt stable principles that, when generally observed, serve their long‑term self‑interest. Such a view would differ from act egoism, which evaluates each individual action solely on its immediate benefit to the self.
Etymology / Origin
The term combines the English word rule (from Latin regula, “a straight stick, rod; a standard or principle”) with egoism (from Greek ego, “I”, via the philosophical term egoism denoting the moral or psychological doctrine that self‑interest is the primary motive). The compound likely emerged in contemporary ethical discussions attempting to parallel the structure of rule utilitarianism.
Characteristics
Given the lack of formal exposition, any characteristic description is speculative:
- Rule‑based assessment – Advocates would evaluate actions against pre‑established guidelines rather than assess each act in isolation.
- Self‑interest orientation – The rules are justified only insofar as they are expected to advance the individual’s own long‑term welfare.
- Potential for universalisation – Some formulations might argue that if everyone adopted such self‑interest‑maximising rules, overall outcomes could be favorable for each individual, though this remains a conjecture.
Related Topics
- Egoism (psychological, ethical, rational)
- Rule utilitarianism
- Act egoism
- Ethical egoism
- Normative ethics
Accurate information is not confirmed regarding the existence of a systematic body of literature or a recognized school of thought specifically identified as rule egoism. The discussion above reflects plausible interpretations based on the constituent words and analogous ethical theories.