Fall in love Quote by Michael Shermer
““What science offers for explaining the feelings we experience when believing in God or falling in love is complementary, not conflicting; additive, not detractive. I find it deeply interesting to know that when I fall in love with someone my initial lustful feelings are enhanced by dopamine, a neurohormone produced by the hypothalamus that triggers the release of testosterone, the hormone that drives sexual desire, and that my deeper feelings of attachment are reinforced by oxytocin, a hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and secreted into the blood by the pituitary. Further, it is instructive to know that such hormone-induced neural pathways are exclusive to monogamous pair-bonded species as an evolutionary adaptation for the long-term care of helpless infants. We fall in love because our children need us! Does this in any way lessen the qualitative experience of falling in love and doting on one’s children? Of course not, any more than unweaving a rainbow into its constituent parts reduces the aesthetic appreciation of the rainbow.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Science of Love (Scientific American, 2016)
Love involves dopamine‑driven lust and oxytocin‑driven attachment, evolved for child care; understanding biology doesn’t diminish love’s beauty.
In simple terms: Love is a mix of chemistry and evolution, but still beautiful.
Key Takeaway
Appreciate love’s biological roots without losing wonder.
Themes
biology
evolution
emotion
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- romantic relationships
- parenting
- therapy
- education
Key Concepts
neurochemistry
pair bonding
parental investment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowing love’s chemistry affect personal experience?
- Can science and romance coexist harmoniously?
A Different Perspective
Biological explanations can feel reductionist and may conflict with spiritual views.
