The Four Loves (C.S. Lewis)

C.S. Lewis's "The Four Loves" explores four types of love: affection (friendly bonds and familiarity), friendship (shared interests and mutual respect), romantic love (intimate, passionate connection), and charity (selfless, unconditional love). Lewis emphasizes how each love enriches human experience, but also how they can become distorted if misused. He advocates for understanding and nurturing these different loves, recognizing their unique roles in our relationships and spiritual growth. Ultimately, "charity" — or divine love — is seen as the highest form, guiding us to genuine compassion and selflessness.