Which description best matches egoists in decision making?

• A. Seek to maximise the overall benefit to society
• B. Look after their own needs when making a decision
• C. Will focus on the consequences of a decision
• D. Consider whether other stakeholders are compromised by a decision

Answer: (B)

Focusing on self-interest drives egoism in decision making. An egoist makes choices aimed at maximizing personal benefit, looking after their own needs when deciding between options. This is why the description that centers on looking after their own needs best matches egoists. Other descriptions point to different ethical approaches, such as maximizing benefit to society (utilitarian thinking) or considering the impact on other stakeholders, rather than prioritizing the chooser’s own interests. In practice, an egoist weighs options by their personal advantage, even if that means not maximizing broader outcomes. For example, they might select a course of action that boosts their own bonus or status rather than what benefits the organization as a whole.