

Best of: A new philosophy of love
23 snips Jun 26, 2023
In this thought-provoking discussion, Carrie Jenkins, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia and author of "Sad Love," challenges traditional views of romantic love. She argues for a broader understanding that includes the complexities of sadness and personal growth. They explore the illusion of romantic love, advocate for non-monogamy, and stress the importance of emotional honesty. By redefining love beyond mere happiness, they spotlight the value of diverse relationships and meaningful connections in our lives.
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Harmful Myth
- The "happily ever after" myth is a harmful yardstick we measure ourselves against.
- It sets unrealistic expectations, leading to feelings of failure even when relationships are otherwise healthy.
Sadness as Failure
- Sadness in love is often viewed as a failure because love is equated with happiness.
- This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or unlovability when relationships experience normal difficulties.
Eudaimonic Love
- Eudaimonic love focuses on shared values and meaningful goals, not just happiness.
- Even with sadness or depression, a relationship can still be eudaimonic if it supports meaningful projects.