Disinterested concern for the welfare of another, as an end in itself. Questions include the reality of altruism (see egoism ), and its value. While altruism is frequently thought to be a cornerstone of Christian ethics, as a category it is unknown in Greek thought. It was energetically attacked by Nietzsche as entailing an unhealthy suppression or devaluation of the self, although in fact there is no evidence that altruistic personalities in general have particularly low self-esteem.
Philosophy dictionary. Academic. 2011.