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Love
Browse Love as a public-domain reading list on Rivro, with free classics, authors, subjects, and related books.
The Evolution of Love
Emil Lucka
The Evolution of Love
"The Evolution of Love" by Emil Lucka is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This work explores the various manifestations of love throughout human history and seeks to understand its evolution beyond mere biological or sexual impulses. The author aims to present a comprehensive examination of love from a psychological and civilizational perspective, rejecting the notion that it can be solely attributed to sexuality. At the start of the book, Lucka introduces his premise that love, as a profound human experience, has emerged and evolved over historical time rather than being an immutable instinct. He discusses the primitive perceptions of love among early humans, emphasizing that their sexual relationships were mostly chaotic and devoid of individualistic considerations, centering instead around maternal bonds. This initial exploration sets the stage for a deeper inquiry into the development of love as it intertwines with civilization, individual identity, and the eventual intersection of spiritual feelings with romantic notions in later cultures. The opening lays the groundwork for an expansive analysis that will consider the social, emotional, and metaphysical dimensions of love across different epochs.
Falling in Love; With Other Essays on More Exact Branches of Science
Grant Allen
Falling in Love; With Other Essays on More Exact Branches of Science
"Falling in Love; With Other Essays on More Exact Branches of Science" by Grant Allen is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The book explores various scientific themes through a lens that emphasizes the human experience and instincts, particularly the phenomenon of falling in love. Allen argues against the notion that love is a mere distraction from rational selection in human partnerships, positing instead that love is a beneficial, evolutionary instinct designed to enhance human efficiency and the species' survival. At the start of the collection, Allen introduces the contentious topic of love as a natural instinct versus the artificial imposition of societal norms, referencing Sir George Campbell's views on marriage selection. He humorously critiques Campbell's perspective that love is a 'foolish idea' and instead delves into how love, along with physical attraction, serves as a critical mechanism for selecting healthy partners. The opening sets the stage for a broader discussion around various scientific concepts, blending serious biological insights with engaging commentary on human emotions, ultimately defending love as a foundational aspect of human relationships and evolution.
Hints for Lovers
Arnold Haultain
Hints for Lovers
"Hints for Lovers" by Arnold Haultain is a collection of essays exploring the complexities of love, relationships, and the nature of men and women, written in the early 20th century. The author delves into the intricacies of romantic interactions, aiming to unravel the differences and dynamics between the sexes as they pursue love and companionship. The opening portion introduces the author’s examination of women, especially young girls, and their multifaceted nature as perceived by men. Haultain paints a vivid picture of girls as both enigmatic and captivating creatures, filled with complexities that perplex the male psyche. He discusses how infatuation often fuels the male desire to understand them, revealing a blend of admiration, confusion, and the often venturous pursuit of love. The initial chapter sets the tone for a broader exploration of gender dynamics in love—highlighting the playful yet serious undertones of courtship, the joy and trials of relationships, and the eternal quest to navigate in the world of affection and attraction.
Herein is Love A Study of the Biblical Doctrine of Love in Its Bearing on Personality, Parenthood, Teaching, and All Other Human Relationships.
Reuel L. Howe
Herein is Love A Study of the Biblical Doctrine of Love in Its Bearing on Personality, Parenthood, Teaching, and All Other Human Relationships.
"Herein is Love" by Reuel L. Howe is a spiritual and theological exploration written in the early 1960s. This work delves into the significance of Christian love and fellowship, emphasizing how these relationships should shape our lives and interactions with one another. Howe's focus on practical applications of love in various aspects such as parenting, teaching, and community highlights the transformational power of divine love in the lives of individuals and congregations. The opening of the book introduces a meeting among church leaders grappling with the declining influence of the church in modern society. Mr. Clarke expresses concern over this loss of relevance, prompting various members to share their perspectives on the church's purpose and their responsibilities within it. The discussion reveals differing views: from Mr. Churchill's insistence on separation from worldly issues to Mr. Wise's call for active engagement. Rev. Gates, the minister, emphasizes the shared responsibility of all members in embodying the church's mission, which is to express God's love in their actions. This initial dialogue sets the tone for the book, portraying the struggle for understanding love as the central theme of Christian fellowship.