Fair Enough

Starting out Book 9 we are told it is appropriate to set a value on things in a political or business sense. Everyone should get the same thing for their dollar without discrimination. This promotes good will. But concerning lovers it depends more on perception of goodness. They both may want certain things and failure by either party can make one feel they were deceived and therefore their time was wasted. It may be that one or the other feels the amount of love shown isn't reciprocated. But this depends on the object of the love. If one wanted taken care of while the other wanted pleasure, the relationship falters if the amount given isn't satisfactory. It gets down to the motive for the love. If a person is loved because of qualities such as looks, entertainment or money, these things must remain to sustain the relationship. Since character isn't prone to change, a love based on mutual goodness isn't as likely to change. The area that performance is expected is in goodness and good motives are assumed as a result. The other areas are a bonus and are enjoyed as they fall in place. In order for expectations to be met and to avoid conflict, honest communication is important so both parties get what they want out of the relationship.

But who sets a value on services? Is it the giver or the receiver? If the giver sets the value, they may take advantage of the receiver by asking too much for too little. If it is the receiver then they might require too much effort for too little pay. A waitress who is always paid a tip in advance might give worse service than expected but a patron could be cheap and underpay if they set the price. The goal is to be fair and fairness is the mark of good character. Some things can't have a value set on them, such as good advise. We might pay a token or give appreciation but some things between friends are invaluable. A good teacher or a mentor cannot be paid enough but it is similar to how we deal with a parent. We just do what we can. But we see goodness and motive as a factor here as well.

But when something is done specifically with a return in mind, both parties should agree. Of course ultimately it is up to the giver if he wants to provide the service, but a just receiver will make sure there is a proper compensation. A free people will be able to make contracts privately with no need for interference from government. When debt is involved however, terms are usually set upon and put in writing.