Emotion and Consciousness

Abstract

Emotional feelings, such as happiness and sadness, are a fundamental feature of human conscious experience, yet the neuroanatomical pathways that give rise to the conscious experience of emotion remain unclear. In this chapter we review data and theories that address the neural basis of the conscious experience of emotion. In particular, we highlight the insula's role in mapping the physiological state of the body as a potential substrate for the conscious experience of emotion. In addition, we discuss research supporting the assertion that emotional in-formation need not be conscious to have significant effects on brain activity and behavior. We conclude with speculative thoughts about the relationship among interoception, emotion, and self-awareness.