Words and Emotions: ‘THIS DRIVES ME NUTS’

Language is often used to arouse emotions. A section of the brain is specifically responsible for controlling emotions. The section of the brain that controls emotions is evolutionarily older than that controlling reason. When reason and emotions are in conflict emotions usually win over. Emotions can be placed along the continuum ‘negative-neutral-positive’. Manipulating emotions through language may change people’s behavior. Emotions released through language play an important role in politics. Usually, negative emotions are raised against political opponents. Insults may be discussed as relating to language and emotions.