An egoist is someone who prioritizes their own interests and well-being above those of others. This philosophy emphasizes self-interest as the foundation of human behavior, suggesting that individuals naturally act in ways that benefit themselves. Egoism can be seen in various contexts, including ethics, psychology, and economics. In ethical discussions, egoism contrasts with altruism, which focuses on the welfare of others. There are different forms of egoism, such as ethical egoism, which argues that individuals should act in their own best interest, and psychological egoism, which posits that people inherently act in ways that serve their own needs.