Why We Feel: The Science of Human Emotions

The Story

Why do we think some people are beautiful? Why do orgasms feel good? Why do we get angry? Anxious? In this intriguing book, biopsychologist Victor Johnston explores the origin of human feelings and shows us that they are not some strange accident of human nature, but are instead the basis of learning and reasoning. In the process, he offers a radical new view of reality: What we see, hear, smell, feel -- even what we consider beautiful -- is not an accurate representation of the world around us; rather, our feelings are illusions, shaped by millions of years of evolution. In clear and colorful prose, Johnston helps us navigate the intimate relationship between our emotions and our biological survival -- and tells us what this means for human creativity, innovation, and, ultimately, free will.