“The god of love lives in a state of need. It is a need. It is an urge. It is a homeostatic imbalance. Like hunger and thirst, it’s almost impossible to stamp out.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
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Quote
“The god of love lives in a state of need. It is a need. It is an urge. It is a homeostatic imbalance. Like hunger and thirst, it’s almost impossible to stamp out.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato describes love as a fundamental, uncontrollable force that arises from a state of need or imbalance. Just as hunger or thirst are biological imperatives that push humans to act in order to satisfy basic needs, love is portrayed as a powerful urge that drives individuals to seek connection and fulfillment. Plato’s comparison to hunger and thirst suggests that love is not simply a fleeting emotion but a persistent force that cannot easily be subdued or ignored. It becomes an intrinsic part of human existence, difficult to extinguish or control once it arises.
This idea reflects the complex nature of love in Plato’s philosophy, where it is not only about romantic or physical attraction but also a force that can shape one’s pursuit of virtue and wisdom. For Plato, love is a motivating force that propels the soul towards greater understanding and truth, especially in his concept of Platonic love, which transcends mere physical desire and aims toward spiritual and intellectual connection.
In modern times, this concept of love resonates in both psychological and social contexts. Love can be seen as a biological drive that influences behavior, much like other basic human instincts. It also plays a crucial role in relationships, mental health, and personal well-being. Just as hunger motivates individuals to nourish themselves, love drives people to form relationships, seek intimacy, and create meaningful bonds. Recognizing love as a need rather than just an emotion highlights its importance and the challenges that arise when it is unmet or unreciprocated in people’s lives.
