Love is a concept that is explored in countless ways throughout history—by philosophers, poets, novelists, and artists. The topic is even more interesting and complex when we dig down into what actually causes us to feel this deep affection for another person.
Psychologists, sociologists, and scientists have various opinions on what love is. Some believe that it’s a physiological drive like hunger, thirst, sleep, or sex, while others define it as a complicated feeling that encompasses a wide range of emotions and behaviors. Still others argue that the definition of love is a personal experience and can be different for every individual.
One way to look at it is through the lens of evolutionary biology. Considering the long childhoods of humans compared to other animals, it’s important for children to have loving adults that can nurture them physically and emotionally. Without it, we would be unable to survive and grow into adulthood. As a result, the innate desire for love is one of the most basic human urges.
According to evolutionary biologists, there are three components that make it easier for people to fall in love. Those include attraction, lust, and attachment. The first two are sexual in nature, while the last is an emotional bond. The more a person feels attracted to a potential partner, the more likely they are to develop romantic feelings for that person. That, in turn, makes them more likely to develop a relationship that will lead to romance and commitment.
Aside from the biological and evolutionary roots of love, there are also a number of cultural and social factors that influence it. For example, it’s more likely that people will develop romantic feelings for those with whom they share a close connection, such as family members or friends. This may be because of shared experiences, values, or interests. In addition, those who spend a lot of time with one another are more likely to develop these feelings, as are people who have similar backgrounds or attitudes.
Other influences include a person’s own expectations and beliefs about relationships, as well as the expectations and beliefs of their family members and other loved ones. Religious and spiritual teachings have also played a role in the development of ideas about love. For instance, Thomas Aquinas explains that Christian love is motivated by the need to see others succeed and thrive.
Despite the different opinions on what love is, most experts agree that it includes feelings of affection and closeness for another person. This can be felt for a romantic partner, a friend, or even an animal. A mother’s love for her child, for instance, is an example of unconditional love. The same can be said for the love between a husband and wife, or between close siblings.
