Love Quote by Harlan Ellison
““Love, n. The folly of thinking much of another before one knows anything of oneself. Love, n. A temporary insanity curable by marriage or by removal of the patient from the influences under which he incurred the disorder. This disease, like caries and many other ailments, is prevalent only among civilized races living under artificial conditions; barbarous nations breathing pure air and eating simple food enjoy immunity from its ravages. It is sometimes fatal, but more frequently to the physician than to the patient. People””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Love” in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, 1975
Love is portrayed as a foolish, disease-like obsession that blinds self‑knowledge, seen as a cultural affliction absent in simpler societies.
In simple terms: Love is described as irrational and harmful, especially in modern civilization.
Key Takeaway
Question the romantic ideal and seek self‑understanding before love.
Themes
love
psychology
culture
irrationality
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- self‑reflection
- cultural analysis
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Is love always detrimental, or can it be constructive?
- How does culture shape our experience of love?
A Different Perspective
The view dismisses love’s positive aspects and may be overly cynical.
