Skip to content

Jealousy Quote by Christopher Ryan

“Shame, from their perspective, would be the proper response to promises of or demands for fidelity. A vow of fidelity would be considered inappropriate—an attempt at negotiation or exchange. Openly expressed jealousy, for the Mosuo, is considered aggressive in its implied intrusion upon the sacred…” quote by Christopher Ryan
Download Open image
““Shame, from their perspective, would be the proper response to promises of or demands for fidelity. A vow of fidelity would be considered inappropriate—an attempt at negotiation or exchange. Openly expressed jealousy, for the Mosuo, is considered aggressive in its implied intrusion upon the sacred autonomy of another person, and is thus met with ridicule and shame.””

Christopher Ryan

About This Quote

Source Book: “Sex at Dawn” by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá, 2010

The Mosuo view jealousy as invasive, preferring autonomy; thus, jealousy is mocked and shamed.

In simple terms: Mosuo culture treats jealousy as a violation of personal freedom.

Key Takeaway

Respect autonomy over possessiveness.

Themes

culture relationships autonomy

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

anthropology psychology

When to use this quote

  • cross‑cultural studies
  • relationship counseling

Key Concepts

social norms emotional regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does cultural context shape emotional expression?
  • Can autonomy coexist with intimacy?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual emotional needs.

4.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Christopher Ryan

Explore all 113 Christopher Ryan quotes

More Jealousy quotes

Browse all 2,951 Jealousy quotes