The Philosophy of Love: Beyond Romance

What do we mean when we say "I love you"? Is love a feeling, a choice, or something else entirely? How do different forms of love—romantic, familial, platonic, self-love—shape our understanding of connection and meaning?

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of love as a philosophical concept that extends far beyond romantic notions. From the Ancient Greeks' four distinct types of love to contemporary philosophical debates about its nature, we'll examine how our conceptions of love influence our relationships, communities, and sense of purpose.

### Questions We Might Explore:

• How do philosophical traditions across cultures understand and categorize love?
• Is love primarily emotional, rational, or both?
• Can love exist without vulnerability or risk?
• How does our modern society shape our expectations and experiences of love?
• What is the relationship between love, attachment, and freedom?
• How might self-love differ philosophically from love directed toward others?
• Does love require reciprocity to be meaningful or authentic?

No formal background in philosophy required—just bring your curiosity and willingness to engage with others. Our discussion will draw on thinkers from Plato to Simon May while remaining grounded in our everyday experiences of connection, care, and meaning-making.

"Love is the only sane and satisfactory answer to the problem of human existence." - Erich Fromm