Unraveling love: From evolutionary roots to global cultures
Scientists have embarked on a quest to discover the origins of romantic love and its significance in human evolution. Recent surveys undertaken across 90 countries have provided intriguing insights.
Psychologists have conducted studies that illuminate the evolutionary roots of romantic love. The findings from the survey, conducted in 90 nations, suggest that romantic love has been pivotal in ensuring the stability of relationships and increasing the likelihood of producing offspring.
We have uncovered evidence supporting the evolutionary origins of romantic love. Our research emphasises one of the benefits love offers: the durability and stability of relationships - summarises psychologist Dr Marta Kowal from the University of Wrocław in a conversation with the Polish Press Agency.
The theory, proposed by economist Robert Frank and further developed by evolutionary psychologists, posits that love evolved to enhance the sense of security and reproductive success among partners.
Frank likened love—the cornerstone of a romantic relationship—to a lease agreement between a tenant and a landlord. He suggested that love serves as a commitment that ensures the couple remains together rather than parting at the first opportunity.
Research in 90 countries: what was established?
The study engaged 86,000 participants from 90 countries. Respondents were asked about their willingness to enter a relationship with an ideal partner but without love.
Imagine you are not currently in a committed relationship. Visualise meeting someone who embodies all the qualities of your ideal partner, yet you are not in love with them. How likely is it (on a scale from 0 to 100) that you would marry this person/register your relationship? - was the question posed.
Most respondents were disinterested in such a relationship. The research, published in the scientific journal Human Nature, revealed that men, affluent individuals, and those without children were more inclined to enter a relationship without love. These groups are more capable of living without a partner for various reasons.
Moreover, in countries such as Ghana, Morocco, Iran, and Uganda, the majority of respondents were amenable to relationships without love. Dr Kowal speculates that this might be attributed to collectivism and the tradition of arranged marriages, where the group's welfare guides marital decisions.
"Happily in love people are healthier"
According to Dr. Kowal, romantic love stems from the bond between a child and a mother. Mechanisms such as tenderness and attachment have permeated adult relationships, offering evolutionary benefits. Strong bonds between partners allow for more effective care of offspring, enhancing the chances of passing genes to future generations.
These studies confirm that romantic love is not merely a beautiful emotion but also a crucial component of human evolution, present in cultures worldwide.
For people globally, love is exceedingly important, likely because it is associated with stable and joyful relationships. Numerous studies indicate that happily in love individuals are healthier, more content in everyday life, live longer, and take better care of themselves - reminds Dr Kowal.
