Single Idea 9241

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / A. Egoism / 1. Ethical Egoism]

Full Idea

Far from demonstrating a flaw in character or being a sign of weakness, coming to love oneself is the deepest and most essential - and by no means the most readily attainable - achievement of a serious and successful life.

Gist of Idea

Loving oneself is not a failing, but is essential to a successful life

Source

Harry G. Frankfurt (The Reasons of Love [2005], 2.14)

Book Reference

Frankfurt,Harry G.: 'The Reasons of Love' [Princeton 2006], p.68


A Reaction

Obviously it will be necessary to dilineate the healthy form of self-love, which Frankfurt attempts to do. Ruthless vanity and self-seeking certainly look like the worst possible weaknesses of character. With that proviso, he is right.