Selfless giving and concern for the welfare of others. May also help to establish one’s own self-worth; some psychologists argue that even altruism is selfish, motivated by a desire to reduce guilt or other unpleasant feelings in the giver.



Example: John D. Rockefeller was a notable businessman who devoted the second half of his life to charitable endeavors and religion.

    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 25 Sep 2008