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Love, n. The folly of thinking much of another before one…

“Love, n. The folly of thinking much of another before one knows anything of oneself. Love, n. A temporary insanity curable by marriage or by removal of the patient from the influences under which he incurred the disorder. This disease, like caries and many other ailments, is prevalent only among…” quote by Harlan Ellison
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““Love, n. The folly of thinking much of another before one knows anything of oneself. Love, n. A temporary insanity curable by marriage or by removal of the patient from the influences under which he incurred the disorder. This disease, like caries and many other ailments, is prevalent only among civilized races living under artificial conditions; barbarous nations breathing pure air and eating simple food enjoy immunity from its ravages. It is sometimes fatal, but more frequently to the physician than to the patient. People””

Harlan Ellison

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Love is portrayed as a foolish, disease-like obsession that blinds self‑knowledge, seen as a cultural affliction absent in simpler societies.

In simple terms: Love is described as irrational and harmful, especially in modern civilization.

Key Takeaway

Question the romantic ideal and seek self‑understanding before love.

Themes

love psychology culture irrationality

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • cultural analysis
  • therapy sessions

Key Concepts

philosophy social critique human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is love always detrimental, or can it be constructive?
  • How does culture shape our experience of love?
A Different Perspective

The view dismisses love’s positive aspects and may be overly cynical.

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