h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Love is a cell in a massively cellular Universe

A cell is a space protected by permeable walls. Within that space things happen which are less likely to happen outside it. Cells come in all shapes and sizes and cell walls have many forms.

The solar system is a cell held together by the sun’s gravity. Within it, mass behaves differently from the way it does in regions where solar gravity is not the strongest force. The Earth is a cell shielded from solar radiation by its magnetic field and its atmosphere. Within the protection of those walls complex chemical systems have been able to form and plants, animals, and humans have evolved. All of these systems are arranged in cellular form, cells alongside cells and cells within cells. Families, clans, clubs, societies, cities, nations, international organisations; all have a cellular structure. They all have walls of rules that protect an inner space so that something special can flourish inside. We spend our days in a universe of overlapping cells.

Love is just such a cell. When we say we love another person, animal, motor bike, we are really saying that we are prepared to give up some of our life to provide the protected space within which the object of our love can grow and flourish to become what it can be. Love provides a space for enhanced development and, thereby, is a major asset in the process of human evolution.

Of course, love between younger people is intermingled with ideas of the perfect partner, surging hormones and competition. For the most part these are devices that have evolved to make sure that, on average, we behave in a way that benefits the species (the species, not the individuals involved). Individuals are well advised to pause occasionally in their frolicking and think whether a protected space in which both can better flourish is being built.

Consultant2