The Science of Love: Understanding Love and Its Effects on Mind and Body

According to sociologist Walsh, an innate biological ``love energy'' may drive Homo sapiens along paths of caring and affection. Lack of love, he shows, not only contributes to childhood illnesses but also may stunt physical and intellectual growth, weaken the immune system, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and exacerbate neurosis, schizophrenia and multiple sclerosis. In an absorbing, valuable synthesis, Walsh ( Human Nature and Love ) assesses the literature on parenting, breastfeeding, left/right brain dichotomy, male and female orgasm and extramarital affairs. He summarizes the evidence for genetic or prenatal hormonal determinants of homosexuality, posits inherent differences in the psychologies and sexual strategies of men and women. A felicitous, jargon-free style enhances the appeal of this scientific investigation of love from infancy to old age. (May)