
The Weekend University
Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett - How the Brain Creates Emotions
Apr 24, 2025
Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading psychologist and neuroscientist, dives into her revolutionary theories on emotions. She reveals that emotions are not instinctual but constructed by the brain based on past experiences and context. The conversation emphasizes the power of emotional granularity, showing how a richer emotional vocabulary can enhance mental health. Dr. Barrett also discusses the interplay between perception and memory, and how our experiences shape our sense of agency and responsibility. Discover how redefining emotions can empower personal growth!
56:30
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Quick takeaways
- Emotions are constructed by the brain using past experiences, fundamentally altering the traditional view of instinctive emotional responses.
- Emotional granularity enhances mental health by allowing individuals to precisely identify their feelings, improving emotional management and resilience.
Deep dives
Understanding Emotions: A New Perspective
Emotions are constructed by the brain rather than triggered instinctively, challenging the classical view that suggests they are hardwired responses to specific stimuli. According to groundbreaking research, the process of emotion formation involves the brain using past experiences to make predictions about how to react to present situations. This dynamic means that emotions are not simply reactions to external events but are shaped by an individual's history and context. Therefore, understanding emotions requires recognizing that they are not rigidly defined but are the result of an intricate interplay between sensory data and prior knowledge.
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