Agape vs. Eros?

The Kiss
Copyright 2012 Addie Hirschten
Watercolor on Paper

So...

Agape = universal, unconditional love of all mankind

Eros = romantic love

What is the difference? Is eros just an extension of our sexuality? When we "fall in love" is it all a ploy by nature to perpetuate the species?

This difference gnaws at me because I can't help but see my heart's desire as a shining star. A hierarchy forms in my mind with that person at the top. No other hands feel as good. No other person is as exciting to talk to.

Does this eros inflicted hierarchy go against my universalist ideals?

Does it negate agape?

Or as one friend said does being in love make you MORE loving to all of the other people in your life?

Or all the above
oh how I love to see you smiling.
-Gnarls Barkley