Final answer:
Ethical egoism is the ethical theory that one should act in one's own self-interest, not self-denial. It is reflected in rational egoism, which considers self-interest a reasonable motive for actions. However, ethical egoism faces objections due to potential conflicts and unsociability.
Step-by-step explanation:
False. Ethical egoism is a theory of ethics that, conversely, recommends that one ought always to do what is in one's own self-interest. It does not prescribe self-denial but rather self-interest as the rational basis of morality. Under strong ethical egoism, it is always right to aim at one's own greatest good, and under weak ethical egoism, it is generally right to aim at one's own greatest good. The theory counters the belief of total self-sacrifice, arguing instead that moral actions should facilitate one's own interests.
Rational approaches like rational egoism also reflect this ethic by suggesting that aiming at one's own greatest good is the most reasonable course of action. However, ethical egoism is controversial because it can create conflicts and is considered incompatible with the moral foundations necessary for social life. It's important to note that ethical egoism differs from psychological egoism, which posits that all human actions are motivated by self-interest, even when they appear altruistic.
While ethical egoism may work for individual decision-making, it faces several objections, such as being incompatible with ethical conflict-regulation and not serving as a moral foundation for social life. Ethical egoism doesn't provide a sustainable framework if everyone pursued only their self-interests without regard for others.