Originally Posted By: robx
Yes I'm way too analytical but the truth is, I think it all boils down to power, perception of value, fear of loss, hierarchy of power in society, etc.

The sad thing is this doesn't say to much about love does it at least not from the WAS point of view. They only change their mind when you decide to move on and start dating others, you take away their power of choice.

Man... does this all boil down to consumerism?!


I think that's why I'm so squicked out by the advice to date or pretend to in service of evoking jealousy, or, exactly what you describe above. What kind of relationship is founded on not wanting to be on the "losing end" of a transaction based on the perceived "market value" of a fellow human? Fine, you may snatch up a hideous (to you) Twombly at a yard sale when you recognize it because you know you can resell it to someone who WILL value it, but a marriage doesn't so much function that way ....

Originally Posted By: robx
I then read things about "love chemicals" and that people in affairs are being fooled by their brains and these chemicals, and are feeling excited & attracted to their affair partners and the feelings are new & something they need.


There seems to be quite a consensus on this (Helen Fisher, etc). I wish everyone got educated on the chemical effects of fresh infatuation at a young age, so they weren't so blindsided by it at an age where they might be reasonably expected to know better. If the WAW knew all the reasons why they were experiencing high levels of giddy sweetness with a new partner, they would also know it doesn't last, not like that anyhow.

Giving a nod to the dude whose thread this is .... Smiley, Dr. Fisher says, "Don't risk copulatin' with anyone you don't want to risk falling in love with." (my paraphrase) Sexually-induced delusions of salience can blindside the most self-aware.

Especially, in my opinion, in the wake of massive emotional upheaval and a long drought.


"Show me a completely smooth operation and I'll show you someone who's covering mistakes.
Real boats rock." -- Frank Herbert