Eros Quote by Stephen Backhouse
““Preferential love seeks only those who share one's passions--the more similar the lovers the more fervent the love. By contrast, neighbour love is not preferential and there is no question of loving for sameness' sake. It thrives in a situation of difference, able to include many people under its aegis. The drift of love based on passionate preference is always towards 'the one.' The drift of neighbour love is always towards 'the many.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Ethics of Love” by Stephen Backhouse, 2012
Love can be preferential, focusing on similarity, or neighbourly, embracing difference and inclusivity
In simple terms: Preferential love seeks similarity; neighbour love embraces difference
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inclusive love that welcomes diversity
Themes
love
ethics
inclusivity
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- community building
- interfaith dialogue
- multicultural workplaces
- friendship circles
Key Concepts
preferential love
neighbour love
social cohesion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal preference with broader inclusivity?
- What practices foster neighbourly love in diverse groups?
A Different Perspective
Preferential love can be exclusive and limit growth
