Rational Egoism

Where it surfaces

• What Is to Be Done?

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

• A Vital Question

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

• Part II: First Love, and Legal Marriage

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

• II

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

• VIII: The Temptation of Hamlet

  Central to the chapter: Lopukhóf argues that all human actions are driven by self-interest, and Viéra tests this theory in her personal dilemma.

• IX

  Central to the chapter: Lopukhóf's concept of 'self-interest' is contrasted with Marya Alekséyevna's vulgar greed, and the narrator defends it against accusations of materialism and immorality.

• XVII

  Lopukhóf's calculated use of alcohol to achieve his goal exemplifies rational self-interest, a key theme in the novel.

• XIX

  Lopukhóf's internal monologue repeatedly asserts that he acts only for his own best good, rejecting the idea of sacrifice as a false term.

• XVII

  Kirsánof explicitly frames his decision in terms of rational self-interest, weighing the costs and benefits of staying versus leaving.

• XVIII

  Kirsánof's actions are explicitly framed as selfish pleasure derived from the skill of his maneuver, aligning with the theory that all actions are motivated by self-interest.

• XXI

  Lopukhóf applies rational self-interest and materialist analysis to understand his wife's feelings and Kirsánov's actions, prioritizing Vera's happiness over his own emotional attachment.

• A Theoretical Conversation

  Both characters analyze their own motives through the lens of rational egoism, noting how self-interest shapes their arguments and actions.

• XXV

  Lopukhov argues that Vera's suffering is pointless and that true happiness comes from following one's genuine feelings, a core tenet of rational egoism.

• XXVI

  Lopukhóf's calm, reasoned response to Vera's letter and his focus on practical affairs exemplify the rational egoist approach to emotional crises.

• II

  Vera discusses Lopukhov's and Kirsanov's tendency to explain their actions through egotistical calculation, a central theme in the chapter.

• XVII

  Katerina and Beaumont act according to their own convenience and mutual respect, free from the 'devils' of passion or social pressure.