We intend Affection as the Latin ‘amor’.
We use the word LOVE in a wide, universal, holistic way. Therefore, in this philosophical context, we prefer the term AFFECTION when referring to a positive disposition on interpersonal levels. For instance, we talk of the AFFECTION (fondness) between two people or between me and my cat.
Thus, AFFECTION is the tendency and the capability of relating with other creatures not only on a mutual-convenience basis. Rather, its motivations are deep and authentic feelings, sentiments, emotions.
Put in a simple way, it means being able to intensely sympathize with others and feeling driven to put oneself in the others’ shoes. Well, the “simple way” is the description we are adopting here. Much less simple is its translation in real daily actions.
AFFECTION is taking into consideration the heart and soul of the other creatures, feeling towards them a genuine interest, an attraction, an empathy.
We intend Affection as the Latin ‘amor’. Firstly, there is a precondition about this quality: one has to feel a tender and natural AFFECTION for himself too. This specific sentiment towards oneself has nothing to do with a narcissistic form of self-conceit or complacency. Secondly, this preliminary form of self-affection also has nothing to do with boastfulness and arrogance. Thirdly, not only natural affection for oneself bears no relation to self-absorption and to selfishness, but it is absolutely in full opposition to these two conditions. In conclusion, our “self-affection” is simply the core of the philosophical approch here promoted, i.e. the <CARE OF SELF>. If one does not care for himself he will prove incapable of feeling any real affection for the other creatures.
This is Sokratiko’s way to interpret the notion of AFFECTION. Please continue to browse our list of philosophical TOPICS by clicking on the other entries of our list.