Skip to content

Choices Quote by Ayn Rand

“And that is why I consider promiscuity immoral. Not because sex is evil, but because sex is too good and too important... What sex should involve is a very serious relationship. Whether that relationship should or should not become a marriage is a question which depends on the circumstances and…” quote by Ayn Rand
Download Open image
““And that is why I consider promiscuity immoral. Not because sex is evil, but because sex is too good and too important... What sex should involve is a very serious relationship. Whether that relationship should or should not become a marriage is a question which depends on the circumstances and the context of the two persons' lives. I consider marriage a very important institution, but it is important when and if two people have found the person with whom they wish to spend the rest of their lives -- a question of which no man or woman can be automatically certain. When one is certain that one's choice is final, then marriage is, of course, a desirable state. But this does not mean that any relationship based on less than total certainty is improper. I think the question of an affair or a marriage depends on the knowledge and the position of the two persons involved and should be left up to them. Either is moral, provided only that both parties take the relationship seriously and that it is based on values.””

Ayn Rand

About This Quote

Source Book: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, 1957

Sex is portrayed as a profound, serious act that should be rooted in deep commitment; casual relations are not inherently immoral if taken seriously.

In simple terms: Sex is serious, not evil; commitment matters.

Key Takeaway

Treat relationships with seriousness and shared values.

Themes

relationships commitment morality sexuality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • marriage decisions
  • affairs
  • consensual relationships

Key Concepts

Objectivism ethical relativism personal values

Practical Applications

  • ethical discussions

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines seriousness in a relationship?
  • How do personal values shape sexual ethics?
A Different Perspective

The view may overlook cultural and personal differences in sexual ethics.

4.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Ayn Rand

Explore all 1,777 Ayn Rand quotes

More Choices quotes

Browse all 11,466 Choices quotes