Love is a mysterious force that has baffled philosophers, poets, and hopeless romantics for centuries. Plato, one of the greatest minds in history, believed that love was not just an emotion but an essential component of human flourishing.
According to Plato, love is a means of transcending the physical world and reaching a higher form of existence. He believed that true love is not based on superficial qualities like looks or wealth, but on a deep connection between two souls. In his Symposium, Plato argued that love can be divided into two types: the physical and the spiritual.
The physical type of love, which Plato referred to as "Vulgar Eros," is driven by passion, desire, and lust. It is the kind of love that makes your heart race and your palms sweat, but it is also fleeting and often ends in disappointment.
The spiritual type of love, on the other hand, is much deeper and more meaningful. This type of love, which Plato called "Divine Eros," is based on a connection between two souls that transcends the physical realm. It is the kind of love that inspires poetry, music, and art, and it is the kind of love that lasts a lifetime.
What I think he misses is Divine Eros can act like Vulgar Eros when people lust after the very poetry he said is divine. Vise versa the physical is not inherently vulgar unless you define it as something fleeting that you may not always hold value in (calling yourself out Plato). I for one would find my wife attractive if she burned her face with acid. Maybe we should call platitudes "Plato-tudes". Just kidding
The meaning of words is subjective and depends on the interpretation you give them. It's important not to rely on others, including philosophers, to define things for you that you consider essential. Developing your own critical thinking is necessary to avoid being influenced by others' opinions.
That isn't do say there isn't a lot to gain form others. Plato believed that true love is a journey of discovery and self-discovery. He believed that in order to love another person, we must first love ourselves. He also believed that love is not just an emotion but a virtue that requires discipline, self-control, and wisdom. Brad important concepts that deserve a lot of consideration.
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