Consider what metaphors we use to describe love and relationships.

We value people. We invest in relationships. People are priceless. A relationship can be bankrupt.

All economic metaphors.

I believe our problem is clear. We think of love as a commodity, using it for trade like money.

If someone is doing something for us, offering us time, gifts, social status, ect., we feel that they are valuable. With love, we withhold affirmation from those who don’t agree with us and lavishly finance those who do.

But love is not a commodity. And it doesn’t work like the economy. When you trade with love, everybody loses.