Rational Egoism

Characters act according to enlightened self-interest, believing that truly understanding one's own needs leads to moral and beneficial actions for all, as seen in Lopukhov's calculated marriage and the cooperative workshop.

The philosophical underpinning of the characters' decisions to act according to enlightened self-interest.

The chapter delves into the concept of rational egoism, where characters debate whether self-interest can align with moral and social progress.

Lopukhóf's arguments that acting in one's own rational self-interest can lead to ethical outcomes, as seen in his proposal to Vera.

Lopukhóf's calculated renunciation of romantic follies and his focus on self-improvement and science reflect the principle of rational egoism.