Full Idea
The Myth of the Passions says emotions are irrational forces beyond our control, disruptive and stupid, unthinking and counterproductive, against our 'better interests', and often ridiculous.
Gist of Idea
The Myth of the Passions says they are irrational, uncontrolled and damaging
Source
Robert C. Solomon (The Passions [1976], 6.4)
Book Reference
Solomon,Robert C.: 'The Passions (1993 ed)' [Hackett 1993], p.181
A Reaction
The Myth is very unlikely to be correct, for evolutionary reasons. How could there be a selection for a mental feature which distorts truths and leads to dangerous misjudgements? Most emotions motivate us to act successfully. So why do some run wild?