Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman
Ep91 "What is love?"
Feb 10, 2025
Dive into the neurobiological essence of love and discover how upbringing, facial symmetry, and even pheromones shape our connections. Explore the fascinating intersection of heartbreak and scientific understanding, revealing how emotions affect our health. Delve into the evolution of romantic attraction and what keeps long-term love alive. Reflect on the future of AI in romance and the ethical implications of manipulating our deepest emotions. Love is more complex and captivating than you might think!
49:18
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Quick takeaways
- Love is a biological phenomenon driven by neural circuits, hormones, and evolutionary factors that influence attraction and attachment.
- Heartbreak activates brain regions associated with physical pain, highlighting the deep biological impact of emotional loss on mental health.
Deep dives
The Biological Nature of Love
Love is fundamentally biological, characterized by neural circuits and a complex interplay of neurotransmitters and hormones. Neuroscientific studies reveal that falling in love activates specific brain regions associated with pleasure and reward, such as the caudate nucleus and ventral tegmental area, which release dopamine. This chemical reaction contributes to the euphoric feelings experienced in new romantic relationships, similar to the effects of addictive substances. Furthermore, the presence of cortisol during early romance indicates a psychological crisis response, while oxytocin fosters feelings of attachment as physical intimacy increases.
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