Affection Quote by Joseph Butler
“The principle we call self-love never seeks anything external for the sake of the thing, but only as a means of happiness or good: particular affections rest in the external things themselves.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: "Sermons on Human Nature" (1726)
Self‑love is internal; external objects are only means to happiness, not ends themselves
In simple terms: True self‑love looks inward, not to possessions
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner contentment over material pursuit
Themes
self‑love
philosophy
ethics
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- mindful consumption
- relationship building
Key Concepts
intrinsic happiness
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly brings you joy?
- How can you practice self‑love without external validation?
A Different Perspective
May ignore external influences on wellbeing
