Chapter 2: The Emotional Roots of Love
Abstract : Love is a complex, multifaceted experience with deep emotional, biological, and evolutionary roots. It is defined as a powerful, often unconditional, feeling of affection, tenderness, or devotion . While often considered a primary emotion, some researchers describe love as a primary motivation system —a drive designed to foster social bonds, ensure the survival of offspring, and promote reproduction. Here are the key emotional and biological roots of love based on psychological and neurobiological research: 1. Evolutionary and Biological Roots A Survival Mechanism: Love evolved to keep humans together for mutual protection, cooperation, and the survival of the species. The Three Brain Systems: Anthropologist Helen Fisher identified three distinct, intertwined brain systems that produce the feelings of love: Lust: Driven by testosterone and estrogen, this is the craving for sexual gratification. Attraction (Romantic Love): ...