Humans are ultrasocial and emotional

Behav Brain Sci. 2016 Jan:39:e117. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X15001211.

Abstract

Given the highly social nature of the human emotion system, it is likely that it subserved the evolution of ultrasociality. We review how the experience and functions of human emotions enable social processes that promote ultrasociality (e.g., cooperation). We also point out that emotion may represent one route to redress one of the negative consequences of ultrasociality: ecosystem domination.

MeSH terms

  • Emotions*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Social Behavior*