Acquaintance Quote by David Hume
“Friendship is a calm and sedate affection, conducted by reason and cemented by habit; springing from long acquaintance and mutual obligations, without jealousies or fears, and without those feverish fits of heat and cold, which cause such an agreeable torment in the amorous passion.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals, 1751
Friendship is a rational, steady bond formed through shared history and mutual duties, lacking the volatility of romantic love.
In simple terms: Friendship is calm, reasonable, and habit‑based.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate steady, duty‑based relationships.
Themes
friendship
reason
habit
stability
mutual obligation
Mood
calm
reflective
steady
Type
philosophical
observational
descriptive
When to use this quote
- long‑term collaborations
- team projects
- community building
- mentorship
Key Concepts
social contract
virtue ethics
emotional regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does habit sustain friendship over time?
- When might reason hinder genuine connection?
A Different Perspective
May overlook deep emotional intimacy needed in crises.
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