Anatomy of Love: A Natural History of Mating, Marriage, and Why We Stray
Natural History Mating Stray: Anatomy of Love is Helen Fisher’s revised and updated overview of human courtship, love, marriage, and infidelity. It connects research on brain science and relationships with topics ranging from dating in the digital age to divorce and changing sexual norms.
At a glance
- Covers human family life and courtship from evolutionary origins through modern dating.
- Discusses romantic love, attachment, adultery, divorce, personality styles, gender and power, and maintaining partnerships.
- The revised edition adds discussion of relationships and courtship in the digital age.
Reference price: $26.95
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Broad coverage connects evolutionary history, neuroscience, and contemporary relationship trends.
- The 464-page edition offers substantial detail for readers looking beyond a short introduction.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | W. W. Norton & Company |
|---|---|
| Publication date | February 1, 2016 |
| Edition | Completely Revised and Updated with a New Introduction |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 464 pages |
| Weight listed | 1.52 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.6 x 1.5 x 9.6 inches |
| ISBN-10 | 9780393285222 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-0393285222 |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in the science and history of romantic relationships, mating, and marriage.
- Readers looking for a wide-ranging discussion of dating, infidelity, and changing courtship patterns.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a practical workbook or focused step-by-step relationship advice.
- Readers who prefer conclusions framed without speculative interpretation.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
69% 69% - 4 stars
18% 18% - 3 stars
9% 9% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
2% 2%
Customer feedback describes the book as informative, readable, and entertaining, with readers appreciating its research and potential for self-analysis. Some find its conclusions speculative, so it may suit readers who enjoy broad interpretations of human behavior more than those seeking narrowly qualified conclusions. The favorable overall rating is useful context, but ratings alone do not establish why individual readers responded as they did.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as informative and readable.
- The customer summary says readers find it entertaining and useful for self-analysis.
Mixed feedback
- Some customers consider the conclusions speculative, while the writing style is generally well received.
Frequently asked questions
What subjects does Anatomy of Love cover?
The listing describes topics including courtship, romantic love, attachment, adultery, divorce, gender and power, and contemporary dating trends.
Is this a revised edition?
Yes. The listed edition is completely revised and updated with a new introduction.
How long is the book?
The listing gives a print length of 464 pages.
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