Amour-propre

Definition

Amour-propre refers to a form of self-love that is dependent on social recognition and comparison with others. Unlike natural self-love, which is instinctive and tied to basic survival needs, amour-propre is a socially constructed emotion that arises when individuals seek approval, status, and validation from their peers. This concept plays a crucial role in understanding human behavior and relationships in the context of social dynamics and moral development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amour-propre develops in society as people begin to compare themselves with others, leading to a sense of self-worth that hinges on external validation.
2. Rousseau believed that amour-propre can lead to negative outcomes such as jealousy, competition, and conflict among individuals seeking recognition.
3. In contrast to amour de soi, which promotes healthy self-care and personal development, amour-propre can distort one's sense of identity and values based on societal expectations.
4. Amour-propre is significant in Rousseau's view of the social contract because it highlights the potential for both cooperation and discord within human relationships.
5. Rousseau argued that a society overly focused on amour-propre could lead to moral degradation and a loss of genuine compassion among its members.

Review Questions

• How does amour-propre differ from amour de soi, and what implications does this have for human relationships?
  • Amour-propre differs from amour de soi in that it relies on social recognition and comparison with others, while amour de soi is an instinctive form of self-love that focuses solely on personal well-being. The reliance on external validation in amour-propre can lead to unhealthy competition, jealousy, and conflict in relationships as individuals seek approval. In contrast, amour de soi encourages self-care and personal growth without the influence of societal standards.
• Discuss how amour-propre contributes to the development of inequality in society according to Rousseau.
  • Rousseau argues that amour-propre fosters inequality by creating a competitive environment where individuals seek status and recognition based on their perceived worth compared to others. This quest for validation can lead to social hierarchies, as people strive to elevate themselves above their peers. The resulting inequalities can create divisions within society, where some individuals feel superior while others feel inferior, ultimately impacting social cohesion and moral values.
• Evaluate the role of amour-propre in shaping the moral landscape of society as proposed by Rousseau in his theory of the social contract.
  • In Rousseau's theory of the social contract, amour-propre plays a critical role in shaping the moral landscape of society by influencing individuals' behaviors and relationships. While it can motivate cooperation and community building through shared values, it also poses risks of moral degradation as individuals become consumed with their social standing. Ultimately, Rousseau warns that if society prioritizes amour-propre over the common good reflected in the general will, it can lead to conflict, alienation, and a breakdown of genuine moral connections among citizens.

Related terms

amour de soi: A natural form of self-love that focuses on one's own well-being and survival without the influence of societal standards or comparisons.

the general will: The collective will of the citizens in a society that aims for the common good, reflecting the interests and needs of all rather than individual desires.

inequality: The differences in status, power, and resources among individuals or groups, often exacerbated by the pursuit of amour-propre.