I have been asked to research the origins of the word, “goodwill,” and to compare the concept of goodwill in several languages, including a European and an Asian language. Frankly, I am at a loss, and I wonder whether you all can help me.

I have found the definition and etymology in my Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology, which takes the word “good” back to the Gothic sense of “fitting, suitable,” and then traces the development of “goodwill.” Is there any point in tracing the meaning of the earlier words listed in the dictionary (Old English, Dutch, etc.)?

And, can anyone help me with concept of goodwill as expressed in other languages? A friend who speaks Spanish told me, for example, that in Spain there are "goodwill" societies which are largely religious in nature and which seem to use the concept of goodwill to encourage people to extend to others the regard that God extends to us.

Thanks for whatever help you can offer!

Hollis




hollis