Summary
The article explores the idea of soulmates and how it has evolved over time. It looks at historical concepts of love and recent scientific views on whether a perfect partner exists. The article also discusses how modern dating apps impact the search for a soulmate.
Key Facts
- The concept of soulmates dates back to ancient Greece, with myths like Plato's story of Zeus splitting whole beings in two.
- Medieval European stories, such as those about Lancelot and Guinevere, influenced modern ideas about romantic love and soulmates.
- Professor Viren Swami mentions that the idea of choosing one life partner stems from medieval European culture.
- The rise of industrialization led people to seek individual partners for connection, different from earlier communal lifestyles.
- Dating apps are described as tools for "relation-shopping," which can make finding a soulmate feel unfulfilling.
- Professor Jason Carroll distinguishes between the idea of a soulmate and a life partner, emphasizing relationships require effort.
