History of Passion as a Construct

The word “passion” can be challenging to understand and define. The concept has received differing meanings and definitions in its historical and philosophical background. Today, most people associate passion with something that makes life worth living. Similarly, we often hear that following your passion will make you happy. “Passion” is an uncontrollable or intense feeling resulting in a strong drive or motivation toward something or someone. However, “passion” initially meant suffering (Latin: passio). Contemporary synonyms include affection, anger, ardor, dedication, intensity, joy, and agony, among many others (Passion. [Thesaurus]. Available from: https://www.thesaurus.com/browse/passion . Accessed 25 May 2024). In the current chapter, we unravel passion’s diverse historical, philosophical, and psychological facets, exploring its nuanced meanings that transcend mere emotion and delve into the essence of what truly makes life worth living.