Basic Emotions

Abstract

In this chapter the author consolidates his previous writings about basic emotions (e.g., Ekman, 1984), and describes a framework of basic emotions which is most influenced by Darwin (1872/1997) and S. S. Tomkins (1962). The 3 meanings of the term "basic" are described. From this perspective, all negative and positive emotions differ in their appraisals, antecedent events, probable behavioral responses, physiology, and other characteristics. This basic emotions perspective is in contrast to those who treat emotions as fundamentally the same, differing only in terms of intensity or pleasantness. Second, the meaning of "basic" is to indicate instead the view that emotions evolved for their adaptive value in fundamental life tasks. The term "basic" has also been used to describe elements that combine to form more complex emotions. The author describes a number of characteristics which are useful in distinguishing one emotion from another and distinguishing emotions from other affective phenomenon, such as moods or emotional traits. The basic emotions position captures what is unique about emotion, and what emotions have in common which distinguish them from other affective phenomena. The utility of this approach for future research is discussed.