Love is a deep emotional bond that can take on various forms, including the camaraderie of friends and family and the butterflies from romantic feelings. It enriches our lives and provides support during tough times, but it also requires care and understanding to thrive. Different views of love have been portrayed throughout history and popular culture, ranging from romantic to familial to spiritual. Researchers and psychologists differ somewhat in their definitions of the concept, with some believing that it is a complex emotion that includes a mix of primary emotions.
Some scientists view love as a basic human emotion that evokes physical responses, such as oxytocin and neurotrophins, while others believe that it is primarily a psychological phenomenon, influenced by hormones, social pressures and expectations. Some scientists distinguish between loving and caring, with the latter involving sacrificing oneself for another person and a greater commitment to the relationship.
The scholarly study of love has spanned several disciplines, including psychology and biology and neuroscience, anthropology and sociology. Many of these fields have contributed to our understanding of the origins and dynamics of love.
Despite the ambiguity and complexity of love, it is one of the most important aspects of life. It is the source of much creative expression, such as poems and songs and movies. It is the basis for many long-term relationships, as evidenced by marriages and friendships that span decades. It is also the motivation for many people to commit to difficult tasks, such as caring for someone with a chronic illness or remaining committed to a spouse who engages in destructive behaviors.