The Nature of Emotion - Magda B. Arnold

"The Nature of Emotion" by Magda B. Arnold, published in 1970, is a seminal work that explores the intricate relationship between emotions and human behavior. Arnold, a pioneering figure in the study of emotions, provides a comprehensive analysis of how emotions arise, their psychological underpinnings, and their impact on human experience.

Arnold’s work is grounded in the belief that emotions are not just subjective feelings but are also deeply intertwined with cognition and behavior. She posits that emotions are triggered by cognitive evaluations of events and situations, emphasizing the role of appraisal in the emotional process. According to her, emotions arise when individuals assess a situation based on personal significance, leading to specific emotional responses.