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About this quote

What does it mean?
True friendship involves wanting good for a friend for their own sake, not for personal gain.
In plain terms
A real friend wishes you well simply because they care about you.
What can you take from it?
Seek friends who care about you, not just themselves.

Where it applies

  • building relationships
  • evaluating friends
  • ethical living

Putting it to work

  • practice selfless giving
  • value authentic connections
  • reflect on motives

Questions to consider

  • Do you wish well for others without expecting return?
  • How do you spot true friends?

Another view

Some friendships naturally mix self-interest with mutual care.

More from Aristotle

  1. Mothers are fonder than fathers of their children because they are more certain they are their own.

    Permalink to quote #119
  2. No excellent soul is exempt from a mixture of madness.

    Permalink to quote #121
  3. Most people would rather give than get affection.

    Permalink to quote #118

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