This thought-provoking statement challenges us to consider the fundamental nature of human relationships. It underscores a nuanced understanding of our social responsibilities, suggesting that love, while deeply valued, is not a mandatory emotion we owe to others. Instead, respect emerges as a universal duty that underpins a harmonious society. Recognizing that love can flourish or falter based on individual choices allows us to depersonalize moral obligations and focus on essential civility and mutual regard. This perspective invites reflection on the importance of coexistence and dignity—core elements for a peaceful society, especially in multicultural or diverse settings. It encourages us to see respect not merely as a polite gesture, but as an active practice that sustains societal bonds, regardless of personal feelings of affection or attachment. Such a viewpoint fosters an inclusive approach, where even if love is absent, respect maintains the social fabric. Given Saramago's philosophical stance, this idea perhaps advocates for a baseline of decency that all individuals owe to one another, emphasizing that mutual respect forms the foundation of ethical coexistence. This notion challenges us to prioritize empathy and understanding, recognizing those as key virtues that can bridge differences without necessitating love, which remains a deeply personal and often unpredictable emotion. In a broader context, this quote reminds us that societal harmony depends more reliably on respect than on the unpredictable nature of love, promoting a pragmatic yet compassionate approach to human relations.