William James (1884)

5 Pages 1312 Words

William James (1884) proposed that we are afraid of the bear because we run, rather than we run because we are afraid. Discuss this in relation to how emotions occur.

A key aspect of human behaviour is the ability to sense and feel emotions. Emotions are defined as phenomena that are perceived by the body that causes a reaction; often these responses have physiological characteristics. This essay will look at the many psychological/ biological theories and ideologies involved in the concept of emotion.

Human kind has evolved over the years to accommodate innovations in its biological, physiological, psychological and social lifestyle. Information about the ways humans can live appropriately have been passed on since the beginning of creation. New data is also brought to attention as individuals have enhanced their intellect. The concept of emotion(s) is a subject closely tied to an individuals life; joy, anger, fear, happiness have long been with us. Emotions are a universal part of human life that is attached to every being and animals.

The concept of emotions consists of four characteristics that affect each other in order to complete the whole emotional experience. The individual has certain feelings attributed to a certain emotion, e.g. if a criminal realises that there is a high possibility that they will be caught by police there will be feelings of guilt and nervousness. However these feelings are unique to individuals themselves and each scenario can have a different effect on individuals. The second aspect involved in the build up of emotions is ‘an action’ this again is a result of an experience felt by the individual. Psychological arousal is the third factor which looks at the psychological implications of the experience including the somatic and autonomic response. Motivation is also related to emotions, the individual is motivated to respond in a specific manner to fulfil the emotion.

Many theories have bee...