Love is a complex emotion. Some researchers consider it to be one of the most basic human emotions, while others think it is a cultural phenomenon. In addition to these two perspectives, many researchers differ over its definition. While the American Psychological Association (APA) classifies love as a complex emotion, others argue that it is merely a biological drive.

Compassionate love

Compassionate love is an expression of altruism that centers on the welfare of others. This form of love is closely related to the construct of unlimited love. It differs from romantic love, which is based on a self-centered desire for self-gratification. Since the 1990s, research into the concept of compassionate love has received considerable scientific support. The concept of compassionate love is a popular topic of research. The Fetzer Institute is one organization that supports research on compassionate love.

A person's motive for giving is one of the key factors in whether their actions are genuinely compassionate. When we act purely for self-interest, our actions do not serve the other, which can diminish the effect on the recipient and diminish our moral growth. Self-centered motives include guilt, fear, or the desire for love or success.

Romantic love

Romantic love is a type of emotional attachment that is based on a combination of feelings. This form of love is often expressed through courtship behaviors. Romantic love is different from platonic love, which is nonsexual and excludes sexual relations. Romantic love has a variety of characteristics, from idealistic aspects to the normal intense emotional and physical aspects. It can be grand and demonstrative.

The original meaning of romantic love was based on the emotions a person experiences when he or she falls in love. These emotions include passion, affection, and appreciation. Romantic love may also involve some sort of sexual desire.

Storge love

Storge love is a form of familial love. This type of love is instinctive and natural, and it is the love that a parent feels towards their offspring. It is a bond that is incredibly strong and enduring. While many people associate storge with the love between parents and children, the concept is much deeper than that.

Storge is the most basic form of love and has its origins in the Golden Age of Greek civilization. This period was the era of Plato, the dawn of modern philosophy, and the pursuit of intellectual virtue. It also was a time when science and existential leanings ruled the day.

Person love

There are two different kinds of person love: passionate and companionate. Passionate love is characterized by intense longing and is associated with physiological arousal. Companionate love, on the other hand, is characterized by affection without physiological arousal. While passionate and companionate love are similar in many ways, the primary difference between them lies in the degree of intimacy.

Self-sacrificial love

Self-sacrificial love is a kind of love that sacrifices for another person. It is a wonderful kind of love, and anyone who has been in a committed relationship can tell you it is an amazing feeling. Self-sacrificial love is characterized by the willingness to do the things that you aren't interested in for the sake of the other person. It also includes the willingness to do everything you can to protect the other person.

Self-sacrificial love requires an understanding of the ultimate claims of agape, or love that gives. The expression of this love is often embodied in action and is often translated as "charity." But this kind of love isn't just about sacrificing oneself for another. Self-sacrificial love also involves giving of one's time and talents to other people. This kind of love transcends the self, and it is rooted in the gospel.