Ontological Rethinking of the Phenomenon of Love

Abstract

The article examines the understanding of love as presented by Plato, Aristotle, and Vladimir Solovyov. They viewed love as a multifaceted phenomenon connected with the development of human nature and the cultivation of virtues in a person. In the Symposium, Plato describes love as an ascending process – from physical attraction to the contemplation of absolute beauty – reflecting the gradual evolution of the human capacity to love. Aristotle, in Nicomachean Ethics, associates love with virtue as the golden mean between extremes, emphasizing its role in attaining the good through the harmony of reason and emotions. Solovyov, in his treatise The Meaning of Love, presents love as a force that overcomes egoism and brings people together in eternal all-unity, highlighting its transformative power that elevates a person beyond physical limitations and self-centredness. All three philosophers agree that love is not a static emotion but a dynamic process dependent on the development of virtues and spiritual maturity. The authors of this paper distinguish three ways in which a person can ascend the steps of love. In the first scenario, love arises by chance, and the process unfolds “blindly”. The second path involves guidance and assistance from a wise mentor. The third scenario includes a person who is ready for spiritual ascent, synthesizing the first and the second stages and progressing through the steps of perfecting love while correlating his/her ascent with the experience of others. Both the randomness of life and a conscious choice allow a person to ascend the steps of spirituality and attain true love.