benevolence

1 disposition to do good [ant: malevolence]

2 an inclination to do kind or charitable acts

3 an act intending or showing kindness and good will [syn: benefaction]

English

Noun

1. disposition to do good
2. charitable kindness
3. an altruistic gift or act

Translations

• French: bénévolence
• German: Gutmütigkeit
• Japanese: 仁 (jin)
• Latin: benevolentia

Derived terms

• benevolent

Benevolence is the expression of kindness and altruism. Benevolence is "a commitment to achieving the values derivable from life with other people in society, by treating them as potential trading partners, recognizing their humanity, independence and individuality, and the harmony between their interests and ours." as defined by David Kelley in his book Unrugged Individualism.

Benevolence may also refer to:

• Benevolence (Phrenology), a faculty in the discredited theory of Phrenology
• USS Benevolence (AH-13), a Haven class hospital ship

See also

• Agape
• Omnibenevolence

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