“Where love rules, there is no will to power; and where power predominates, there love is lacking. The one is the shadow of the other.”
- July 26, 1875 – June 6, 1961
- Born in Switzerland
- Psychiatrist and psychologist
- Founded analytical psychology and proposed the concepts of archetypes and the collective unconscious
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Quote
“Where love rules, there is no will to power; and where power predominates, there love is lacking. The one is the shadow of the other.”
Explanation
In this quote, Carl Jung explores the relationship between love and power, suggesting that they are opposites that cannot coexist in harmony. Jung argues that when love is the dominant force in a relationship or society, the need for control or dominance—what he refers to as the “will to power”—is absent. Love, in this sense, is associated with compassion, empathy, and the willingness to support others without seeking to impose one’s will. On the other hand, when power is the driving force, love is suppressed, as the desire to control others undermines the capacity for genuine emotional connection and selflessness. Jung’s assertion that these forces are “shadows” of one another implies that each contains the potential for the other, and one cannot fully exist without giving rise to its opposite.
Jung’s idea reflects his broader theory of the shadow, which refers to the unconscious aspects of the self that are often repressed or denied. In the context of power and love, he suggests that an individual or society that seeks to wield power may be compensating for an inner lack of love or emotional connection. Similarly, those who are focused on love may find it difficult to assert themselves or pursue their desires, potentially repressing their need for personal strength or authority. Historically, this concept echoes the tension between selflessness and self-assertion seen in many cultural and philosophical traditions. For example, Christianity often emphasizes love as a central virtue, while political and social systems often prioritize power as a means to maintain control and order.
In modern times, Jung’s insight can be applied to both personal relationships and societal structures. In relationships, a balance between emotional intimacy and assertiveness is crucial for healthy interactions, while in the larger context of politics or business, an overemphasis on power often leads to corruption or isolation, while an overemphasis on love or compassion can result in a lack of necessary boundaries or leadership. Jung’s quote encourages us to explore how the dynamics of love and power operate within ourselves and in the broader world, recognizing that an imbalance in either force can lead to psychological conflict or social dysfunction.
