Towards a Cognitive Theory of Emotions
- 1 March 1987
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in Cognition and Emotion
- Vol. 1 (1), 29-50
- https://doi.org/10.1080/02699938708408362
Abstract
A theory is proposed that emotions are cognitively based states which co-ordinate quasi-autonomous processes in the nervous system. Emotions provide a biological solution to certain problems of transition between plans, in systems with multiple goals. Their function is to accomplish and maintain these transitions, and to communicate them to ourselves and others. Transitions occur at significant junctures of plans when the evaluation of success in a plan changes. Complex emotions are derived from a small number of basic emotions and arise at junctures of social plans.Keywords
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