#844 - Dr Laith Al-Shawaf - Why Do Humans Actually Have Emotions?
Modern Wisdom
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Love Transforms Future Costs into Present Guilt
Love transforms the understanding of commitment by shifting the perception of cheating costs from the future to the present, instilling immediate guilt and reinforcing emotional bonds. This emotional shift alters rational calculus: without love, one might be inclined to cheat due to future discounting, but love generates present emotional responses that encourage loyalty. Furthermore, a rational explanation of love can undermine its value; the ideal partner is one whose love is not based on calculative reasons, as this emotional connection is more resilient against future temptations. The complexity of emotions, including their obfuscation and individual differences, serves an adaptive function, enhancing our relational dynamics.
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