Short Wave Emotions — They're Not Just For Humans
May 4, 2022
Jon Hamilton, NPR brain correspondent, dives into the emotional lives of animals and their links to human feelings. He shares fascinating insights on how fruit flies and mice can illuminate issues like PTSD, revealing that emotions might be evolutionary rather than just learned. The discussion uncovers the complexities of assessing animal emotions, warning against anthropomorphism, and highlights brain circuits that govern both aggression and joy. It's a captivating blend of science and psychology that reshapes how we understand emotions across species.
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Fruit Fly Infestation
- Jon Hamilton mentions a fruit fly infestation in his kitchen.
- He uses this as a starting point to discuss how flies can teach us about mental health.
Evolution of Emotions
- Human emotions like fear and anxiety have evolved from brain circuits found in other animals.
- These building blocks of emotions and emotional disorders can be found in various species, including fruit flies.
PTSD and Fear
- Kerry Ressler, a psychiatrist, explains that PTSD involves an overactive fear response.
- This response, meant for survival, becomes difficult to control and significantly impacts people's lives.
