The quote discusses a common human emotion: jealousy. It describes situations where someone you care about appears to be showing interest or affection towards another person, which can lead to feelings of possessiveness and insecurity. This might happen when your sweetheart mistakenly calls you by another's name, your partner seems overly interested in someone else at work, or they talk enthusiastically about a female colleague.
On a deeper level, the quote delves into the complex and often painful nature of jealousy. It highlights how this emotion can consume one’s thoughts, leading to suspicion and rage towards others as well as feelings of humiliation for oneself. Jealousy is not just about protecting a relationship; it can also stem from personal insecurities and fears about being replaced or losing love. This emotional turmoil can affect people's perceptions and interactions, sometimes even endangering their mental health.
The quote is authored by Helen Fisher, an American anthropologist and biological scientist known for her work on romantic relationships and human sexuality. She has extensively studied the evolutionary basis of human emotions and behaviors related to love and attraction, contributing significant insights into why we experience feelings such as jealousy in our personal lives.