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'I'm very aware of that over-application of the trader principle, as if that's all you need to know to understand human relationships. Good God... [W]ho among you, tell the truth, last time you played with a little kid-or a dog, did you think you're going to have a trade relationship with the dog later in life, for crying out loud? Because there's a good analogy there... As a dog-lover, when I'm looking at a dog nose to nose, the trade is happening right now. The interaction is the reward... Anybody who doesn't understand that, I don't wish to speak to. My official response to such people: they can go fuck themselves.'[5]

Nathaniel Branden#5

PhilosophyEthicsHuman natureRelationships

About this quote

What does it mean?
Branden criticizes overemphasizing the trader principle in all relationships, noting that interactions with pets or children are rewarding without trading future benefits.
In plain terms
Not every relationship is a trade; playing with a kid or dog is its own reward.
What can you take from it?
Recognize that some human connections are intrinsically valuable.

Where it applies

  • personal relationships
  • ethical discussions

Putting it to work

  • reflect on relationship motives
  • value non-transactional bonds

Questions to consider

  • Are all human interactions transactional?
  • What makes a relationship rewarding?

Another view

The aggressive tone may alienate those seeking philosophical dialogue.

More from Nathaniel Branden

  1. '[F]or somebody who presents herself as a champion of the joy of living, [Rand] has very rigid rules about the path you must walk on in your pursuit of enjoyme…

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  2. 'Objectivism comes on, sometimes, as if the most important issue you have to understand is the issue of egoism versus altruism. But that's nowhere near the beg…

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. 'When your principles seem to be demanding suicide, clearly it's time to check your premises'[3]

    Permalink to quote #3

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