57 pages • 1 hour read
448
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
In How Emotions Are Made, Lisa Feldman Barrett argues that emotions are constructed by the brain’s predictive processes based on past experiences, external stimuli, bodily functions, and learned concepts, challenging the classical view that emotions are universally felt, automatically triggered, and tied to specific brain regions. She discusses the moral and legal implications of this theory, emphasizes the role of interoception, and explores the influence of culture and language on emotional experience. The book also considers the application of these ideas in mental health and law.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
14,958 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lisa Feldman Barrett's How Emotions Are Made challenges traditional views on emotions, arguing that they are not universal but constructed by our brains. Positive insights commend the book's innovative perspective and thorough research, while some critics find it overly technical and challenging for lay readers. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read.
A reader intrigued by psychology, neuroscience, and the nature of human emotions would enjoy How Emotions Are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett. Comparable to Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow and Antonio Damasio's Descartes' Error, this book caters to those interested in the science behind emotion and cognition.
14,958 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
448
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.