What men call friendship is no more than a partnership, a…
“What men call friendship is no more than a partnership, a mutual care of interests, an exchange of favors - in a word, it is a sort of traffic, in which self-love ever proposes to be the gainer.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Friendship is essentially a mutually beneficial exchange, driven by self‑interest rather than pure altruism.
In simple terms: Friendship is a self‑interest exchange.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives in relationships.
Themes
self‑interest
exchange
partnership
friendship
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- business dealings
- political alliances
- personal relationships
- social contracts
Key Concepts
philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What expectations do you have of friends?
- Can true altruism exist?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic views ignore selfishness.