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Marriage Quote by Aldous Huxley

“Sex can be used either for self-affirmation or for self-transcendence — either to intensify the ego and consolidate the social persona by some kind of conspicuous ‘embarkation’ and heroic conquest, or else to annihilate the persona and transcend the ego in an obscure rapture of sensuality, a…” quote by Aldous Huxley
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““Sex can be used either for self-affirmation or for self-transcendence — either to intensify the ego and consolidate the social persona by some kind of conspicuous ‘embarkation’ and heroic conquest, or else to annihilate the persona and transcend the ego in an obscure rapture of sensuality, a frenzy of romantic passion, more creditably, in the mutual charity of the perfect marriage.””

Aldous Huxley

About This Quote

Source Book: The Perennial Philosophy, Aldous Huxley, 1945

Sex can serve either ego‑boosting self‑affirmation or self‑transcending union, ranging from conspicuous conquest to intimate, self‑less love.

In simple terms: Sex can either reinforce ego or dissolve it in love.

Key Takeaway

Choose intimacy that transcends ego.

Themes

identity ego intimacy spirituality love

Mood

reflective thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • marriage counseling
  • personal growth workshops
  • sexual health education

Key Concepts

self‑affirmation self‑transcendence ego dissolution mutual charity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your sexual behavior reflect ego or love?
  • Can intimacy be both affirming and transcendent?
A Different Perspective

The view may overlook power dynamics and consent issues in sexual encounters.

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