According to ancient greek philosophers there are seven different types of love

According to Ancient Greek philosophers, there are seven different types of love.

The concept of love has always fascinated humanity, and throughout history, different cultures and societies have sought to understand its many facets. In Ancient Greece, philosophers identified and categorized love into seven distinct types. These classifications, known as The Seven Types of Love, provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex emotion that is experienced by individuals all over the world.

1. Eros (Passionate Love): Eros represents the passionate, romantic, and physical aspect of love. It is characterized by desire, attraction, and sexual intimacy. This type of love is depicted in popular culture as the initial spark that ignites a romantic relationship.

2. Philia (Deep Friendship): Philia refers to deep friendship and companionship, based on mutual respect, shared values, and common interests. This type of love is selfless and platonic, found in enduring friendships that withstand the test of time.

3. Agape (Unconditional Love): Agape represents selfless, unconditional love, often considered the highest form of love. It is characterized by compassion, empathy, and a willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of others. This type of love transcends personal desires and extends to the greater good of all.

4. Storge (Familial Love): Storge is the love shared between family members, often seen between parents and children or siblings. It is a familiar, affectionate, and nurturing love that forms naturally within familial relationships.

5. Pragma (Enduring Love): Pragma refers to enduring love that develops over time in long-term relationships, such as marriages. It is a practical and mature love that is built on commitment, understanding, and compromise. Pragma embodies the idea of working together to nurture and maintain a lasting relationship.

6. Philautia (Self-Love): Philautia is the love of oneself. It can be expressed in two ways—healthy self-love or narcissism. Healthy self-love involves self-care, self-acceptance, and recognizing one’s own worth. On the other hand, narcissism represents an excessive and unhealthy self-love that lacks empathy for others.

7. Mania (Obsessive Love): Mania, also known as obsessive love, describes an intense and possessive form of love. It is often associated with jealousy, insecurity, and irrational behavior. Mania can be passionate but can also be destructive if not balanced with other types of love.

Understanding the different types of love can help individuals navigate their relationships, identify the aspects they desire, and work towards cultivating healthier and more fulfilling connections. By recognizing these various forms of love, one can strive for balance and harmony in their interactions with both themselves and others.

Source: Well+Good

Note: The images used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not endorse or depict any specific individuals or relationships.