Awe

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From a professor of psychology at U.C. Berkeley and a leading expert on emotions, this exploration delves into the history, science, and significance of awe, offering guidance on how to cultivate it in our lives. Awe, an elusive emotion, is challenging to define and measure. How do we quantify the goosebumps from witnessing the Grand Canyon or the wonder of a child walking for the first time? Until recently, scientific focus was primarily on emotions like fear and disgust, which seemed essential for survival. However, we now recognize that our basic needs are met through social connections, cooperation, and cultural creation, all of which are ignited by awe. In this work, Dacher Keltner presents a radical investigation into awe, combining new research on its transformative effects on our brains and bodies with historical and cultural perspectives, as well as personal reflections. He illustrates how awe enhances our humanity, especially in a divided world. Awe sharpens our reasoning, cools inflammation, strengthens our bodies, and fosters community and creativity. It inspires art, music, and religion, transforming our identities. This profound and practical guide invites readers to embrace awe as a vital force in their lives, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the world and our connections within it.