The terms "self-interest" and "selfishness" are often considered equivalent. In fact, at least one dictionary bases one of its definitions of "selfish" on "self-interest." Unfortunately, there are two distinct concepts that are often confused. To make a distinction between the two concepts, I use the two words differently. When I use "self-interest" I mean what someone thinks is best for themselves. When I use "selfishness" I mean putting your one’s own desires first at the expense of others (especially those who have an equal or greater claim).

Here is an illustration. A child who plays with his own toys during playtime by himself is not being selfish, but a child who demands the toys other children are playing with during a play date is being selfish.

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