The general welfare or well-being of the public; the common good of society as a whole.
From 'common' + 'weal' (from Old English wela, meaning 'well-being, prosperity'). The term dates to the 15th century, when it referred specifically to public health and prosperity.
The 'commonweal' is fundamentally different from the sum of individual interests—a society where everyone acts purely selfishly doesn't achieve it. Remarkably, many research shows the commonweal paradoxically improves when people think beyond pure self-interest.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.