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Principia Ethica · Character

The Egoist

Hypothetical character representing egoistic ethical theory.

minor

Also known as himself

First appearance: v ethics in relation to conduct

The Egoist's tie to Henry Sidgwick is one of the pressures that moves Principia Ethica—worth meeting in the text, not only on a cast list.

The Egoist first appears in 0009 v ethics in relation to conduct.

With Henry Sidgwick (rivalry): Sidgwick famously grapples with the 'dualism of practical reason,' attempting to reconcile egoism with universal benevolence.

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Character Web

2 connections

A slice of how The Egoist sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

GEG. E. MooreHSHenry SidgwickTEThe Egoist

Relationship types

  • Rivalry
  • Other

Character groups

  • Utilitarian and egoist theorists
  • Protagonist

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Climax.

SetupBreaking pointAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the text declares that we must finally understand what "good"…

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Relationships

Relationship notes

How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.

See The Egoist in v ethics in relation to conduct
Who is The Egoist in Principia Ethica?