PHILOSOPHICAL THOUGHT ABOUT LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP AS MUTUAL GIFTS IN THE MILIEU OF MODERN SOCIETY

This work explores the deep connection between love and friendship, two fundamental aspects of human life that are often spoken about but not always fully understood. It argues that love and friendship are interdependent and inseparable, forming the basis for human relationships, community life, and social cohesion. The text highlights how these concepts have been philosophically examined from ancient times to the present, evolving from anthropocentric to theocentric perspectives and incorporating phenomenological and existentialist views in modern times. Influential philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, and Cicero have contributed to a tradition of reflecting on love and friendship. The work seeks to address important philosophical questions—such as the nature and criteria of true love and friendship—and emphasizes their importance as mutual human needs and gifts in modern society. It concludes by underlining the necessity of philosophical reflection to better understand and nurture these essential human experiences.