egoism or egotism? The difference between these two words in ordinary use is slight, both being used as equivalents to self-centredness. The more technical uses of the two words give a clue to where the distinction should lie. Egoism is also a philosophical belief in selfishness as the only real (and only proper) motive for action: egotism is self-obsession, for example the excessive use of I, me, and myself when speaking. Egoism is, therefore, best used for self-seeking and egotism for self-importance.