Judith and Holofernes

Much of the research in the NCCR focuses on "utilitarian" emotions, evolved to help organisms cope with emergencies. Thus, an emotion like anger prepares vigorous action in pursuit of one's interests, fear flight from danger, and disgust avoidance of contamination. However, a major part of our well-being consists of "aesthetic" emotions (which Kant defined as "disinterested pleasure"). Work in the NCCR has multiple ramifications for a better understanding of the ways in which paintings, fiction, poetry, theatre, and music produce aesthetic emotions. We will collaborate with artists, writers, actors, and musicians to better understand and promote the role of emotion in the arts by