What’s in a Love Potion?
Besides the infamous Number Nine, that is.
The Totally Unromantic Origin of Monogamy
Evolutionary biology offers theories as to why some mammals engage in monogamy. And no, it's not because they're in love. (Sorry.)
Love, Sex, and Cyanide—The Private Life of a Toxic Butterfly
Heliconian butterflies choose mates with similar wing patterns. Their genes make them do it.
How Does Couples Therapy Work?
Since the 1980s, more and more couples have sought therapy. Why is it so helpful to have that third person in the room?
The Disappointing Reality of 19th-Century Courtship
For white, middle-class women in the 19th century U.S., courtship and marriage offered less emotional intimacy than their friendships with other women.
Wealth Taxes, Embodied Words, and Ancient Comedy
Well-researched stories from Aeon, Public Books, and other great publications that bridge the gap between news and scholarship.
Why Covenant Marriage Failed to Take Off
Three states have legalized covenant marriage, which makes divorce difficult. Why didn't it stick among communities preoccupied with family values?
The Business of the Romance Novel
How romance novels—despite their decided lack of cultural clout—became big business for the publishing industry.
When Victorian Scientists Caught Ballomania
In a moment when scientists were working to fashion a credible identity for themselves, they had to decide how much showmanship was too much.
Germany’s Real-Life “Swing Kids”
Rebellious teenagers thumbed their noses at Hitler with jazz music, wild dancing, and the greeting “Swing Heil.” But how serious was their resistance?