Chapter 3 Complex Emotions

Bhagavan Das, in his exploration of “The Science of the Emotions,” provides an extensive analysis of how primary emotions evolve into complex emotional states and ultimately manifest as virtues and vices, reflecting permanent dispositions or moods that guide human actions. This framework suggests a profound link between our emotional landscape and moral characteristics, pinpointing the transformation of transient emotions into enduring qualities that define personal and social interactions.

3.1 Sub-Divisions of Principal Emotions

A. Love

  1. Liking progresses from polite interaction (Politeness) to more intimate connections (Friendship), and can culminate in the deepest form of partnership (Marriage).

  2. Reverence, starting with basic Respect, grows into deeper Veneration, and at its peak reaches Worship (Adoration), reflecting a gradient of attraction towards perceived superiority.

  3. Benevolence ranges from simple acts of Kindness to more involved Tenderness, evolving into Compassion, indicating a progression in the care for others deemed inferior.

B. Hate

  1. [Dislike] begins with minor Rudeness and can escalate into active Hostility (Enmity), further intensifying into Wrath (Anger, Rage), showing a continuum of repulsion towards equals.

  2. Fear spans from mild Apprehension to intense Terror, and in extreme cases, Horror, reflecting increasing degrees of dread towards perceived superiors.

  3. Pride encompasses Superciliousness (self-importance), evolving into Scorn (Contempt), and culminating in Disdain, illustrating attitudes of superiority towards inferiors.

3.2 Correspondence of the Emotions with Virtues and Vices

Das illustrates how emotions, when solidified into permanent states, correspond directly with virtues and vices. This relationship underscores the moral dimension of emotions, where:

  • Virtues emerge from emotions on the side of Love, fostering positive social behaviors and attitudes, such as politeness, friendliness, lovingness, modesty, reverence, meekness, kindness, gentleness, and compassion.

  • Vices arise from emotions on the side of Hate, leading to negative or destructive behaviors and attitudes, including rudeness, moroseness, cholericness, timidity, cowardice, superciliousness, self-importance, and scornfulness.

Das’s analysis suggests that the cultivation of virtues and the sublimation of vices are achievable through the regulation of emotions. By consciously directing our emotional responses towards love and away from hate, individuals can develop virtues that enrich personal character and societal interaction.

This framework posits that emotions are not merely ephemeral experiences but foundational elements that shape character and morality. By understanding the intricate relationships between emotions, virtues, and vices, Das provides a roadmap for the intentional development of character through the mastery and refinement of our emotional lives.