Extreme social division and polarization. An epidemic of loneliness. "Deaths of despair." These are modern challenges in the United States. But one timeless virtue might help to address them all: Love.
The term might immediately conjure images of romance, but this three-year project aims to expand the public’s understanding and practice of love, with a particular emphasis on “compassionate,” “altruistic,” and “unlimited” love (agape). Drawing on current research, we will highlight the power of love to strengthen the social fabric, bridge divides, and contribute to a good, meaningful life.
More specifically, the four main goals of this project are to:
1. expand and deepen the public’s understanding and appreciation of love and its contemporary significance, encouraging them to see it as a virtue essential to flourishing in life--and to building a good society;
2. inspire more people to recognize their own capacity for love, particularly to expand their circle of care beyond their own group;
3. build a network of journalists and other media producers committed to exploring different angles on the science and experience of love;
4. strengthen relationships between media producers and love researchers to enhance reporting on love in the near- and long-term.
To achieve these goals, the Greater Good Science Center will produce a wide range of research-based content on love for its own and partners’ platforms, reaching a large and influential audience, including thought leaders and key practitioners. An inspiring public event will further engage and activate this audience. We will also offer grants to encourage other journalists to explore angles on love for diverse outlets and audiences, greatly increasing media coverage of this virtue. And by regularly convening these grantees, in person and virtually, and pairing them with scientific advisors, we will build a strong network committed to promoting public engagement with love for years to come.
