This volume presents a conceptual, historical, anthropological, and sociological review of how culture affects our experience and expression of romantic love. What is romantic love and how is it different from and similar to other kinds of love? How is romantic love related to sex and marriage in human history and across contemporary cultures? What cultural factors mediate attraction in love? These are some of the questions the volume explores through its interdisciplinary yet focused lens.Much of the current research evidence suggests that love is a universal emotion experienced by a majority of people, in various historical eras, and in all the world¿s cultures. Yet, love displays in different ways because culture has an impact on people¿s conceptions of love and the ways they feel, think, and behave in romantic relationships. This volume summarizes classical knowledge on love and culture while at the same time focusing sharply on recent studies and cutting-edge research that has advanced the field.

Provides a comprehensive overview of the key debates in love and culture scholarship

Chapter 2. Cultural and interdisciplinary approaches to romantic love