Franklin D. Roosevelt: 'Self-interest is the enemy of all true affection.'

Self-interest is the enemy of all true affection.

In his famous quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt succinctly captures the notion that self-interest poses a threat to all genuine expressions of affection. At first glance, this quote appears to have a straightforward interpretation – placing one's own desires and needs above those of others can hinder the development and survival of true affectionate relationships. However, delving deeper into this concept, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, known as enlightened self-interest, to shed new light on the dynamics between self-interest and genuine affection.To comprehend the meaning and importance of Roosevelt's quote, it is helpful to define the terms at play. Self-interest refers to the inherent inclination of individuals to promote their well-being, often at the expense of others. It can manifest as a desire for personal gain, success, or even survival. On the other hand, true affection encompasses sentiments of warmth, care, and empathy towards others, driven by a selfless desire for their happiness and well-being.Roosevelt's assertion that self-interest is the adversary of true affection suggests that when individuals prioritize their own interests above those of others, the sincerity and authenticity of their affectionate relationships can suffer. When self-interest dominates, individuals may engage in actions solely driven by personal gain, undermining the trust and mutual respect necessary for deep emotional connections.However, let us now explore an alternative perspective – enlightened self-interest. This concept proposes that individuals can pursue their self-interest while also considering the well-being of others, thereby fostering the growth of genuine affectionate relationships. Unlike conventional self-interest, enlightened self-interest recognizes that one's long-term success and happiness are intertwined with the welfare of the community and the people within it.Drawing inspiration from philosophers like Adam Smith, who advocated for a balance between self-interest and social benefit, enlightened self-interest posits that by acting in the best interest of others, individuals can ultimately secure their own well-being. This philosophy recognizes that true affection flourishes when individuals recognize the interdependence of their self-interest and the collective good.By embracing enlightened self-interest, individuals can transcend the narrow confines of solely pursuing personal gains. This philosophy encourages altruistic behavior, empathy, and genuine care for others. When self-interest becomes enlightened, it becomes a powerful force for fostering and nourishing true affection.Through the lens of enlightened self-interest, we can revisit Roosevelt's quote and conclude that self-interest does not have to be the enemy of true affection. Rather, by recognizing the importance of balancing personal desires with the well-being of others, individuals can forge deeper and more genuine connections. Enlightened self-interest transforms self-interest from a threat to an ally, enabling individuals to cultivate true affection that thrives on empathy and caring for others.In conclusion, Franklin D. Roosevelt's quote, "Self-interest is the enemy of all true affection," highlights the potential detrimental effects of prioritizing personal gain above the well-being of others. However, by considering the concept of enlightened self-interest, we can reimagine the relationship between self-interest and genuine affection. When individuals strive to harmonize their personal goals with the welfare of others, they create fertile ground for the blossoming of true affectionate connections. By embracing this philosophical concept, individuals can transcend the limitations of self-interest and nurture relationships built on empathy, care, and mutual growth.