Emotions and Cognition

Students acquire basic knowledge of how emotions were conceptualized by different philosophers in the past (e.g. Aristotle, Descartes, Hume) and learn about contemporary theories of emotions (e.g. LeDoux, Damasio, Solomon, Nussbaum, Goldie) and the distinction between qualitative aspects (feelings) and cognitive aspects (judgments) of emotions. The basic knowledge of the neurobiological mechanisms of emotions and approaches of socially and culturally acquired emotions are presented. The discussion between proponents of the universality of basic emotions and proponents of cultural relativism is evaluated.

The role of emotions in decision-making is considered.

Specific emotions (e.g. fear, love, happiness, etc) are presented analyzed through works of art.