The Gray Area with Sean Illing

We don’t just feel emotions. We make them.

Oct 17, 2019
Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading psychologist at Northeastern University and Harvard Medical School, dives deep into the nature of emotions. She reveals that emotions are not merely felt but actively constructed by our minds, challenging traditional views. Across the discussion, she explores how societal norms influence our emotional experiences and the complexity of feelings like grief and disgust. Barrett emphasizes the significance of understanding our emotional 'body budget' and advocates for mindfulness in recognizing our emotions to enhance mental well-being.
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INSIGHT

Sound Construction

  • Sounds are not passively received but actively constructed.
  • A falling tree creates air pressure changes, needing an ear and a concept of "tree" to be perceived as sound.
INSIGHT

Color Perception

  • Color perception is not objective but a product of our brains.
  • An apple's redness isn't inherent but results from our brains processing wavelengths of light.
INSIGHT

Body Budget

  • Our brains prioritize regulating our bodies; we think and feel to support that.
  • The brain manages a "body budget" of resources like glucose and salt, impacting our feelings.
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