“No one is a friend to his friend who does not love in return.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
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Quote
“No one is a friend to his friend who does not love in return.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato asserts that true friendship is based on mutual affection and reciprocity. A friend who does not return the feelings of love or affection is not truly a friend, according to Plato. Friendship, in his view, requires a balanced exchange of goodwill—each person must not only give but also receive love and respect. Without mutual affection, the relationship cannot be considered a true friendship, as it lacks the essential reciprocal bond that characterizes genuine emotional connections.
This idea reflects Plato’s broader understanding of relationships and virtue. In *The Symposium*, Plato explores the nature of love and friendship, showing that the deepest and most fulfilling relationships are those where both individuals share in mutual care, respect, and commitment. The notion of reciprocal love is essential for a friendship to be based on something true and lasting, rather than being one-sided or superficial.
In modern contexts, this quote reminds us of the importance of mutual respect and affection in our personal relationships. True friendships are based on a give-and-take dynamic, where both parties feel valued, supported, and loved. The quote encourages us to recognize that healthy relationships thrive when both people invest equally in the emotional well-being of each other, creating a bond that is both genuine and sustained over time.
