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Single Idea 23949

[filed under theme 18. Thought / A. Modes of Thought / 3. Emotions / c. Role of emotions ]

Full Idea

There are three fundamental species passions - emotions, moods, and desires. …What all passions have in common is their ability to bestow meaning to the circumstances of our lives.

Gist of Idea

Passions exist as emotions, moods and desires, which all generate meaning

Source

Robert C. Solomon (The Passions [1976], 3.2)

Book Ref

Solomon,Robert C.: 'The Passions (1993 ed)' [Hackett 1993], p.70


A Reaction

Moods are said to be 'generalised emotions', where emotions are about something, and desires add objectives. Solomon criticises rigid divisions between mental faculties and states, but it is hard to disagree with this distinction.