Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation

Jeremy Bentham

Chapter 10, Footnote #10
Love a complex of motives


Love indeed includes sometimes this idea: but then it can never answer the purpose of exhibiting it separately: since there are three motives, at least, that may all of them be included in it, besides this: the love of beauty corresponding to the pleasures of the eye, and the motives corresponding to those of amity and benevolence. We speak of the love of children, of the love of parents, of the love of God. These pious uses protect the appellation, and preserve it from the ignominy poured forth upon its profane associates. Even sensual love would not answer the purpose; since that would include the love of beauty.


[Back to:] IPML Chapter 10 Section 3: Catalogue of motives