In Philip K. Dick's novel "We Can Build You," the concept of love is portrayed as an intrinsic aspect of American culture, almost resembling a worshipful practice. The narrator suggests that society places an excessive importance on love, likening it to a "national religion" that shapes behavior and relationships. This perspective highlights how love can become an obsessive pursuit that influences both individual and collective identity.
The assertion that love functions as a cult suggests that it may lead to unrealistic expectations and pressures. By treating love with such reverence, individuals might find themselves entangled in a web of emotional demands and societal norms. Dick’s commentary invites reflection on how cultural values regarding love can impact personal experiences and relationships, ultimately prompting a reevaluation of what love means in the context of American life.