The big love day is approaching. And with it, as with any celebration, comes different emotions and triggers for different people; for some anticipation, for others pain, and for others perhaps indifference. But why is Valentine’s Day such a big deal? Most people would agree that we have somewhat of an intrinsic need to love and be loved. Psychologists have called it one of humanity’s “basic needs” that if left unfulfilled leads to a range of psychological disturbances. Studies have shown that an infant whose physical needs of food and shelter are met, yet is not given some form of love and affection, may actually die. So what is it in us that makes love such an essential need? And what is love anyways?
It’s always easier to define physical objects. If I told you I had a flat surface that is held up with four legs that I use to set my computer on, you will easily guess that I’m describing my desk. But how do you describe “love”? What is it? Can it be limited to the chemical reactions that can be detected in one’s brain when in that state called “love”?
