Business Quote by Oliver Goldsmith
“Friendship is a disinterested commerce between equals; love, an abject intercourse between tyrants and slaves.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Citizen of the World, 1762
Friendship is based on mutual benefit without selfish motives; love is a power imbalance where one dominates the other.
In simple terms: Friendship is equal and selfless; love can be unequal and controlling.
Key Takeaway
Seek balanced relationships, avoid domination.
Themes
friendship
love
power dynamics
equality
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- romantic partnerships
- workplace dynamics
- family ties
Key Concepts
social contract
emotional dependency
hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you feel equal in your friendships?
- How do power imbalances affect love?
A Different Perspective
Love can become oppressive when power is uneven.
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