Pronunciation: [ˈaməpɹˌɒpə] (IPA) 
The word "amourpropre" is a French term which means self-love or self-esteem. Its spelling may seem daunting at first, but it can be broken down into two parts: "amour" (love) and "propre" (own). In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be written as /a.muʁ.pʁɔpʁ/ with stress placed on the second and fourth syllables. When pronounced correctly, this word can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your writing or speech.
Amour-propre, derived from French, is a concept in philosophy and psychology that refers to a form of self-love or self-esteem. It can be understood as one's sense of pride, vanity, or self-worth. This term was extensively explored by the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau in his work "Emile" and later became a crucial aspect in his theory of human nature.
Amour-propre is characterized by the desire to be esteemed, valued, and respected by others. It encompasses the need for recognition, admiration, and validation from the external world. Unlike amour de soi, which is a more innate sense of self-love, amour-propre primarily arises from social comparisons and the opinions of others. It is the result of individuals evaluating themselves based on societal standards and seeking approval from their peers.
However, Rousseau also pointed out that excessive amour-propre can lead to negative consequences, such as jealousy, resentment, and a sense of superiority. He argued that true happiness and moral virtue are attainable when individuals balance their amour-propre with a healthy sense of amour de soi, which involves self-reliance, authenticity, and inner contentment.
Overall, amour-propre can be considered as the complex interplay between one's self-regard, social recognition, and the emotional need for external validation. It reflects the human inclination to seek validation and acceptance from others while maintaining a healthy sense of self-worth and authenticity.
The word "amour-propre" has its origins in the French language. It is a combination of two words: "amour" meaning love or affection, and "propre" meaning proper or one's own.
The term was first popularized by the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau in his book "Émile" published in 1762. Rousseau used the term to refer to self-love or self-esteem. He contrasted "amour-propre" with "amour de soi-même" which he considered a healthier form of self-love rooted in natural instincts. "Amour-propre" on the other hand, he characterized as the desire for recognition and validation from others, often leading to vanity, envy, and an overly exaggerated sense of self-importance.
