'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]
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
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are all human interactions transactional?
- What makes a relationship rewarding?
Another view
The aggressive tone may alienate those seeking philosophical dialogue.
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