Get the Summary of The Editors of TIME's TIME The Science of Relationships in 20 minutes. Please note: This is a summary & not the original book. Original book introduction: It's only natural: people are fundamentally social creatures, yearning for close, meaningful bonds with others. We crave and consequently forge human relationships that give our lives meaning. In fact, thousands of studies have linked the quality of people's closest relationships to better health, longevity, and well-being. Many questions arise when we ponder what makes a good relationship. How should we handle conflict? What roles do trust and commitment play?