These three spheres belong together. You cannot separate one from the other with distinct borders between them. The terms themselves cannot be clearly defined. Especially as they are used differently depending on the context. Normally sexuality means the physical and instinctive aspects. Love is the personal, unique connections between lovers, and eroticism the refined sexually stimulated forms, which are influenced by culture. The word eroticism is derived from the Greek "Eros", the god of love. Nowadays, colloquially the three terms are mostly used as synonyms - particulary in the commercial area.

Sex

The sexuality of human beings differs from the sexuality of most animals as it does not only concern pure reproduction. For a long time people considered reproduction to be the only purpose of sexuality. According to this opinion sexuality is restricted to the relationship between men and women. However, this definition can be easily refused. Already the fact that homosexuality does occur with primitive races shows the unsufficiency of this view. And also between heterosexuals many actions do not serve for reproduction, not to mention masturbation. So sexuality is more than pure reproduction.

Eroticism

Eroticism is a result of culture. Since sexuality is not limited to the pure act of reproduction any more, the gates are opened for desire, lust, erotic sensuality, games, fantasy, art...

An erotic atmosphere is created not only by looking at a beautiful naked body. Although in our culture the visual sense is dominant: in love all five senses play a significant role. Certain smells, sounds, tastes and touches we perceive as erotically stimulating, others as repellent. In the flora and fauna there are numerous substances which we can use seductively. There are love philters and spells of love, ingenious tricks how to beautify our appearance, essences for perfumes and incense ...

" Aphrodisiacs are for sex and eroticism what spices are for food. "
(Christian Rätsch)