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Full Idea
There are no 'basic' emotions, only those emotions which are prevalent in a particular society. This reduction to a small set makes it impossible to appreciate the richness of our emotional lives.
Gist of Idea
There are no 'basic' emotions, only socially prevalent ones
Source
Robert C. Solomon (The Passions [1976], 8)
Book Ref
Solomon,Robert C.: 'The Passions (1993 ed)' [Hackett 1993], p.224
A Reaction
He cites Descartes as a culprit, and John Watson's famous list of fear, dependency and rage. I think Solomon is probably right. He suggests that the lists are usually individualistic and negative. Individuals may have their private basics!