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What our grandmothers told us about playing hard to get is…

“What our grandmothers told us about playing hard to get is true. The whole point of the game is to impress and capture. It's not about honesty. Many men and women, when they're playing the courtship game, deceive so they can win. Novelty, excitement and danger drive up dopamine in the brain. And…” quote by Helen Fisher
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“What our grandmothers told us about playing hard to get is true. The whole point of the game is to impress and capture. It's not about honesty. Many men and women, when they're playing the courtship game, deceive so they can win. Novelty, excitement and danger drive up dopamine in the brain. And both sexes brag.”

Helen Fisher

About This Quote

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

Courtship is a strategic game driven by novelty, excitement, and dopamine, often involving deception.

In simple terms: Dating is a competitive, dopamine‑fuelled game.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and navigate manipulative dynamics.

Themes

relationships psychology deception

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

sociological psychological

When to use this quote

  • dating apps
  • first dates
  • relationship counseling

Key Concepts

dopamine evolutionary biology social strategy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ethical boundaries should guide modern dating?
  • How does dopamine influence attraction?
A Different Perspective

Not all courtship follows this pattern; cultural variations exist.

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