Meaning: Freud's concept of love as being rooted in sexuality is a central tenet of his psychoanalytic theory. Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, proposed that human behavior and emotions are largely driven by unconscious desires and conflicts, particularly those related to sexuality. In his view, love, whether it takes the form of romantic, familial, or platonic relationships, is ultimately derived from sexual instincts and desires. This understanding of love as fundamentally rooted in sexuality has been a subject of much debate and criticism, yet it remains a significant and influential aspect of Freud's legacy in psychology and philosophy.

Freud's assertion that all love is sexual in its origin or basis reflects his belief in the primacy of the libido, or the sexual drive, in shaping human behavior and relationships. According to Freud, the libido is a fundamental force that underlies not only sexual desires and activities but also a wide range of human experiences, including love, creativity, and emotional attachments. He argued that even seemingly non-sexual forms of love, such as maternal love or friendship, are ultimately manifestations of repressed or sublimated sexual impulses.

Freud's theory of sublimation is particularly relevant to understanding his perspective on love and sexuality. Sublimation refers to the process by which socially unacceptable or repressed desires are channeled into socially acceptable and productive activities. In the context of love, Freud proposed that the energy and intensity of sexual desires could be redirected and transformed into affection, care, and emotional bonds with others. For example, a person's unconscious sexual desires may find expression in their deep emotional attachment to a romantic partner or in their nurturing and protective instincts as a parent.

It is important to note that Freud's views on love and sexuality have been met with criticism and skepticism. Critics have argued that his emphasis on the sexual underpinnings of love may oversimplify the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Many contemporary psychologists and scholars have emphasized the multifaceted nature of love, acknowledging that it encompasses psychological, social, and cultural dimensions that extend beyond mere sexual instincts.

Mortimer Adler, a prominent philosopher and educator, echoed and engaged with Freud's ideas on love and sexuality. In his work, Adler grappled with the implications of Freud's theories for understanding human nature and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. While Adler did not fully embrace Freud's views, his engagement with Freudian concepts reflects the enduring impact of Freud's ideas on diverse fields of inquiry.

In conclusion, Freud's assertion that all love is sexual in its origin or basis reflects his psychoanalytic perspective on the centrality of sexuality in shaping human emotions and relationships. His theory of sublimation provides a framework for understanding how sexual desires may be transformed and expressed in various forms of love. While Freud's views have sparked controversy and debate, they have also contributed to a deeper exploration of the complex interplay between sexuality, love, and human psychology. The ongoing dialogue surrounding Freud's ideas serves as a testament to their enduring significance and the ongoing relevance of his work in the study of human behavior and emotions.