Feelings Transformed

This book explores the intricate nature of emotions, their cognitive aspects, and how medieval and early modern theories can help us understand and transform our feelings in Feelings Transformed.

Emotions are complex phenomena that intertwine with various mental states. In Feelings Transformed, the author delves into the intricate nature of emotions, exploring their origins, structures, and relationships with both mental and physical states. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding how emotions can be altered, offering insights into the medieval and early modern theories that shaped our comprehension of emotional experiences. By examining the works of influential thinkers such as Aquinas and Spinoza, the author reveals how these philosophers approached the challenge of coping with emotions and the potential for transformation.

The text highlights the cognitive aspects of emotions, suggesting that to change our feelings, we must first engage with the underlying cognitive content. This exploration leads to a rich discussion of the connections between emotional theories and cognitive frameworks, illustrating how these ideas have evolved over time. The author meticulously analyzes various philosophical perspectives, including Aristotelian, skeptical, dualist, and monist frameworks, to demonstrate how each has contributed to our understanding of emotions.

Additionally, Feelings Transformed situates these philosophical discussions within their broader theological and scientific contexts. By examining how shifts in these domains have introduced new challenges—such as the love of God or the fear experienced by a soul in a body—the book offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of emotional theories. Through close textual analysis, the author invites readers to reflect on the profound implications of these historical perspectives on our contemporary understanding of emotions.