Sex can be defined fairly adequately in physiological terms as consisting of the building up of bodily tensions and their release. Eros, in contrast, is the experiencing of the personal intentions and meaning of the act. Whereas sex is a rhythm of stimulus and response, eros is a state of being. The pleasure of sex is described by Freud and others as the reduction of tension; in eros, on the contrary, we wish not to be released from the excitement but rather to hang on to it, to bask in it, and even to increase it. The end toward which sex points is gratification and relaxation, whereas eros is a desiring, longing, a forever reaching out, seeking to expand.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Sex is physiological tension release, while eros is a lasting state of being and longing.
- In plain terms
- Sex releases tension; eros is a state of longing and being.
- What can you take from it?
- Distinguish between physical release and lasting connection.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define sex vs. eros?
- Are you seeking release or connection?
Another view
Many people experience sex and eros as overlapping rather than distinct.
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