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Love Quote by Erich Fromm

“To love somebody is not just a strong feeling—it is a decision, it is a judgment, it is a promise. If love were only a feeling, there would be no basis for the promise to love each other forever. A feeling comes and it may go. How can I judge that it will stay forever, when my act does not involve…” quote by Erich Fromm
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““To love somebody is not just a strong feeling—it is a decision, it is a judgment, it is a promise. If love were only a feeling, there would be no basis for the promise to love each other forever. A feeling comes and it may go. How can I judge that it will stay forever, when my act does not involve judgment and decision?””

Erich Fromm

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm, 1956

Love is an active choice involving commitment and judgment, not merely a fleeting emotion.

In simple terms: Love is a decision, not just a feeling.

Key Takeaway

Choose love through commitment.

Themes

love commitment choice relationships

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • long‑term partnership
  • friendship
  • parenting

Key Concepts

Existentialism humanistic psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you turn affection into a promise?
  • What decisions sustain love?
A Different Perspective

Feelings alone cannot guarantee lasting bonds.

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