Emotional: How Feelings Shape Our Thinking

For the last two hundred years, the pinnacle of decision making has been seen as purely rational, intellectual, analytical, and without letting feelings get in the way. This book is a manifesto of sorts, calling for a reclamation of emotion’s role and precedence.

Emotions are inextricably intertwined with thought; there are no purely rational (meaning emotionless) actions. Emotions predate rational thought by eons, and they evolved for good reason: to protect us from danger, to solidify essential social relationships, to allow us to explore and take risks. Scientists who study emotions have gained fascinating insights into where emotions come from, why we have them, and how to harness and control them.

The author includes some very personal stories among his illustrating anecdotes, and the prose is intelligent but not elitist, even though the book is filled with his summaries and analysis of the research. Several questionnaires from various studies help you find your own emotional profile so you can become more aware of how your emotions affect you. If you find they overwhelm you too often, the author offers methods for better self-regulation. You can and should embrace your emotions; they are key to living your life fully and well.