[da blob]

the silliest thing when you think of it is to perform an act devoid of its very meaning - reproduction. It can become just as stupid as any other quest for mere physical relief / pleasure (drugs, etc). IMO what saves it from pure ridicule (when possible) is when your partner is more important than you - some might say "love", but I don't think the two are equal, not in my experience anyway. Also having someone who does care for you turns some mechanical / organic fluids exchange processes into something worthwhile. It's in what you exchange - the "brain" part.
In fact I might seem close to the "mystical love whatever bullshit" school of thought except I think it's in the brain not in the heart / soul / whatever.
If I make sense.