The Laws of Emotion

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This accessible work reviews significant research on emotions from the past decade, expanding on earlier theories and addressing fundamental issues in emotion theory. The author aims to deepen the understanding of the psychological mechanisms behind emotions, exploring previously overlooked topics like emotional intensity, duration, and sexual emotions, while incorporating evolutionary and neuroscientific perspectives. The text begins with principles governing emotions, referred to as "the laws of emotion," and delves into the passionate nature of emotions and their motivational processes, including the causes of pleasure and pain. It discusses emotional arousal processes, cognitive influences, and why certain matters resonate more with individuals. The exploration of emotional intensity includes an analysis of how emotions evolve over time. The book concludes with insights into complex emotional areas such as sex, revenge, and the significance of commemorating past events. This work will attract social, cognitive, and developmental psychologists, social scientists, philosophers, and neuroscientists, as well as anyone intrigued by the workings of the mind. It also serves as a valuable resource for advanced courses in the psychology and neuroscience of emotions.