By Sandrine Ceurstemont
Publication Date: 2026-02-10 10:00:00
While the concept of romantic love may mean slightly different things to different people, scientists over the past few decades have been studying the biology of reproduction and the brain processes that play a role in choosing a sexual partner.
In research published in 1998, biological anthropologist Helen Fisher put forward a leading theory of romantic love, describing it as three independent drives influenced by chemicals in our bodies. One of them is desire controlled by sex hormones. The other two, attraction and bonding, are influenced by the release of chemicals in our brain. For example, dopamine triggers enthusiasm for a love interest, while oxytocin, the so-called cuddle hormone, helps promote a long-term bond.
“Love has a strong chemical component,” says Neil McArthur, professor of philosophy specializing in ethics and technology at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Canada. “We really feel it in our bones, in our chemistry.”
Different parts of the brain are involved in love
