A common form of psychological egoism says that people perform actions-even actions that appear to be altruistic or selfless-solely to obtain satisfaction, happiness, or pleasure. But Feinberg argues that this view of the matter is muddled. It is much more likely that we act to obtain particular things, not satisfaction itself, and that we experience satisfaction as a byproduct of obtaining those things. We don't seek satisfaction; we seek certain things that give us satisfaction when we acquire them. If the things themselves were not the object of our desires, it would be difficult to see how we could get any satisfaction from our attaining them.
-Psychological egoism is supported by moral arguments.

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Psychological egoism is a descriptive theory about human motivation that suggests people always act in their own self-interest, even when performing seemingly altruistic acts. It is not typically supported by moral arguments, but rather by observations or claims about human behavior. Moral arguments are more often used in discussions of ethical egoism, which is a normative theory suggesting that acting in one's own self-interest is morally right.

A Common Form of Psychological Egoism Says That People Perform