Abstract
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
PsychologyCognitionFunction (biology)Cognitive psychologyTransition (genetics)Plan (archaeology)Cognitive scienceNeuroscience
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Publication Info
- Year
- 1987
- Type
- article
- Volume
- 1
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 29-50
- Citations
- 1732
- Access
- Closed
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Cite This
Keith Oatley,
P. N. Johnson‐Laird
(1987).
Towards a Cognitive Theory of Emotions.
Cognition & Emotion
, 1
(1)
, 29-50.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02699938708408362
Identifiers
- DOI
- 10.1080/02699938708408362