Consider him indulgently: the Egoist is the Son of…
““Consider him indulgently: the Egoist is the Son of Himself. He is likewise the Father. And the son loves the father, the father the son; they reciprocate affection through the closest of ties; and shall they view behaviour unkindly wounding either of them, not for each other's dear sake abhorring the criminal? They would not injure you, but they cannot consent to see one another suffer or crave in vain. The two rub together in sympathy besides relationship to an intenser one. Are you, without much offending, sacrificed by them, it is on the altar of their mutual love, to filial piety or paternal tenderness: the younger has offered a dainty morsel to the elder, or the elder to the younger. Absorbed in their great example of devotion do they not think of you. They are beautiful.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote depicts a deep, reciprocal bond where self‑love and love for another merge, creating a mutual devotion that eclipses concern for outsiders.
In simple terms: Self‑love and love for another become one, creating mutual devotion.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and honor reciprocal devotion.
Themes
love
reciprocity
family
devotion
philosophy
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- family dynamics
- personal relationships
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
Egoism
filial piety
sympathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does mutual devotion affect those not in the relationship?
- Can love be exclusive without being selfish?
A Different Perspective
Such devotion may ignore or harm others outside the bond.