Introduction

Lisa Feldman Barret takes us on an adventure to probe three dominant factors, our culture, our brain, and us, colluding to create and emanate emotions. Ensuing her wide knowledge in the field of neuroscience and psychology aided by dedicated scientific research, in "How Emotions Are Made," Barrett walks us through the evolution of our understanding of emotions.

Do we have an inherent system of emotions? Do these emotions surface in a pre-defined manner in response to any stimulus? Or do humans have the ability to influence the development and display of emotions? Daring to question established perspectives and conventional beliefs, she excites us to scout the complexities of the brain and the reality of the world of emotions, and how they are constructed by our minds and influenced by our unique biology, experiences, and cultures. It highlights the fascinating variations in how emotions are perceived and manifested across diverse cultures

This insight will help you to become more aware of your emotions and to question the stories we tell ourselves about them. When we understand that emotions are not fixed, we can navigate our emotional world with more skill. This enhanced self-awareness also improves our relationships with others. Ultimately, embracing Barrett's principles will lead to more fulfilling and harmonious relationships with ourselves and the world around us.

Summary

"How Emotions Are Made," delves into fundamental questions about the nature of emotions.  The conventional belief that emotions are solely controlled by rational thought or governed by automatic responses has long been disproven. Instead, the latest research findings highlight the intricate connection between the mind, emotions, and the brain. 

Emotions are not fixed entities but rather dynamic constructs shaped by cultural influences, brain processes, and interpretations of bodily sensations. This knowledge will empower you to enhance your emotional intelligence and gain mastery over your emotional life. By understanding the art of emotion construction, you will navigate your emotional landscapes more effectively, ultimately leading to a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional control.

The Classic Perspective: Emotions as Innate Components of Our Brain

People have been thinking about emotions for thousands of years. Many famous thinkers, including Charles Darwin, the Buddha, Aristotle, and Sigmund Freud, believed that emotions are automatic reactions controlled by specific parts of the brain. This is called the classical view of emotions.The classical view suggests that emotions are ‘universal’ i.e. every human has the same set of emotions. The idea of essentialism builds upon this, suggesting that emotions have their own "essence” or property (including expression), and because emotions...