Love is a Fallacy is a humorous short story written by Max Shulman in the 1950s. The story is narrated by a character named Petey, a student at the University of Minnesota who is obsessed with logic and the pursuit of intellectual superiority. Petey is convinced that he can win the heart of the beautiful and popular Polly Espy by using his superior intelligence and logical arguments to persuade her to fall in love with him.
The story begins with Petey being challenged by his roommate, Slocum, to prove that love is not a fallacy. Petey, who is determined to win the bet, sets out to prove that love can be scientifically defined and explained. He begins by researching the concept of love and studying the behavior of people in love.
As part of his research, Petey observes and analyzes the behavior of his friends, John and Mary, who are in a romantic relationship. He becomes convinced that their love is based on logical reasoning and that he can use the same tactics to win Polly's affections.
Petey devises a plan to use his superior intelligence and logical arguments to convince Polly to fall in love with him. He starts by using flattery and charm to win her over, but she remains resistant to his advances. Petey becomes increasingly desperate and begins using more extreme tactics, such as buying her gifts and even threatening to commit suicide if she does not return his affections.
Despite all of Petey's efforts, Polly remains indifferent to him and eventually begins dating another man. Petey is devastated by this turn of events and realizes that he has been foolish in thinking that he could win Polly's love through logical argument and manipulation.
In the end, Petey learns that love cannot be scientifically defined or explained and that it is a complex and unpredictable emotion that cannot be controlled or manipulated. He also learns that trying to win someone's love through logical argument and manipulation is a fool's errand and that true love is based on mutual respect, understanding, and affection.
Overall, the characters in Love is a Fallacy are humorous and relatable, and the story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trying to control or manipulate love. It is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that is sure to leave readers reflecting on the nature of love and relationships.