If attractiveness and attraction determine who is or should be worth loving, isn't this just a relationship application of "might makes right"?

[Lightning8]

(This question assumes we are only dealing with well meaning people. Also, I mean the attractiveness of and attraction to someone's persona, which includes both looks and personality.)

If so, does might make right? Or do you think love is more virtuous than that?

[msc545]

Attractiveness is not the same thing as "might". Might implies the threat of violence, and in the situation you describe, the threat of violence is generally not present.

Instead, what is present are physical characteristics that evoke a pleasant and anticipatory neurochemical response in an observer that may or may not lead to sex, as the neurochemical response needs to be mutual for that to occur.

[Lightning8]

Might inherently implies power, not violence. Power and violence are not the same thing. Power has many forms, influence being one of them. What society considers attractive has influence.

[msc545]

In the end, the structure that maintains power is the threat of violence. Power is just that threat dressed up.

[Lightning8]

Not really. Power can be used to deprive or provide

[msc545]

still violence

[Lightning8]

You realize the way you're using the word violence can be applied to act of breathing right?

[msc545]

Please elucidate.

[Lightning8]

Power is the ability to do. It's that simple

[msc545]

No. The way you are using the word power implies a voluntary act. Breathing is not voluntary or optional.

[Lightning8]

Maybe it's how you're using the word, but I am using it based on its definition

[Lightning8]

It's pointless to debate semantics, so

[LazerBean]

Love is definitely more virtuous than that. Ever seen a mother going nuts over a hideous little child? Love does change how you see people.