“It is not love that should be depicted as blind, but self-love.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
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Quote
“It is not love that should be depicted as blind, but self-love.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s view on the difference between love for others and self-love. He suggests that self-love, rather than love for others, is the true source of blindness in relationships. Self-love can cause individuals to act out of selfishness or ego, often blinding them to the needs, feelings, or rights of others. In contrast, true love for others is based on empathy and understanding, which should be far from blind.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with how people may sometimes act out of self-interest or self-obsession, neglecting the perspectives or well-being of those around them. Self-love, or narcissism, can lead to manipulative or destructive behavior in relationships, as individuals prioritize their own desires over mutual respect or care. Voltaire’s quote encourages us to examine the motivations behind our actions, emphasizing that blind behavior comes from selfishness, not from genuine love.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in toxic relationships, where one partner may be overly focused on their own needs, disregarding the other person’s feelings or boundaries. In such cases, the “blindness” is rooted in self-love rather than a selfless connection to the other person. Voltaire’s words remind us that true love is characterized by understanding and sacrifice, while self-love can cloud judgment and lead to unhealthy dynamics.
