The science of emotions: Jaak Panksepp at TEDxRainier

Given an inherent subjective nature, emotions have long been a nearly impenetrable topic for scientific research. Affective neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp explains a modern approach to emotions, and how taking seriously the emotions of other animals might soon improve the lives of millions.

Jaak Panksepp introduced the concept of Affective Neuroscience in 1990, consisting of an overarching vision of how mammalian brains generate experienced affective states in animals, as effective models for fathoming the primal evolutionary sources of emotional feelings in human beings. This work has implications for further developments in Biological Psychiatry, ranging from an understanding of the underlying brain disorders, to new therapeutic strategies. Panksepp is a Ph.D. Professor and Baily Endowed Chair of Animal Well-Being Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University. His scientific contributions include more than 400 papers devoted to the study of basic emotional and motivational processes of the mammalian brain. He has conducted extensive research on brain and bodily mechanisms of feeding and energy-balance regulation, sleep physiology, and most importantly the study of emotional processes, including associated feelings states, in other animals.

This talk was given November 9, 2013 in Seattle at TEDxRainier, a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences.

TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[l.n.]

This is what true science looks like. Inspirational. The world is a better place for his having been here.

[vikin]

This is one of the greatest and most powerful lectures ever on TEDxTalks and surprisingly hasn't managed to garner even 1M views. The irony is that very good stage performers manage to garner more views and have viral videos on TEDxTalks even though most of their talk is superficial and Fluff.

[yeahohright]

I don't know what the fuck is going on in the comment section, but this was an extremely informative talk. Panksepp, if for whatever reason you're reading this, know that you have my gratitude for being innovative in your approach instead of parroting all the Cognitive behavioral therapy and SSRI nonsense that psychology is filled with today. Mental illness is one of the worst things that can happen to a human being, I'm glad something is being done to help future generations.

[inkfish]

This man should win a Nobel. The inside story is that his life's work is driven by the loss of his daughter. As a story technologist and film/screen/playwright by way of investigative journalism, his work has changed my understanding of how story meets affect.

[DecodingDoom]

"Science does not answer why questions: it answers how questions." Probably the most important quote for any researcher. I think the social sciences have largely forgotten this axiom.

[benhyde]

This is the single most powerful and important presentation right now. Thanks are not enough!

[douglaswatt]

Jaak's passing has left a huge hole in the field of affective neuroscience and emotion studies in general. His ideas and contributions have proven prescient and will inspire generations of scientists pluming the nature of mind and affect. This is an excellent short intro to his thinking.

[jaym]

I heard some rats in the subway laughing at me one time. I took it pretty seriously.

[srideepnairkesavan]

Awesome, inspiring! Thank you for sharing 50 years of your life’s work for the betterment of all living beings!

[sherylxavier]

Big Hug, love and gratitude for giving due respect to animals and their feelings. The emotions in animals has brought enlightenment to many saints in India in the past. God bless you for your invaluable discovery. One who has this deep understanding of animals emotions is definitely a super being My family members are cats, dogs, birds, snakes and many other little species There is such joy living together, nothing can beat this. Love and blessings to all animal lovers

[Muzza]

Goes with Bowlby's studies. How wonderful, not only insight into our human behaviour, but into our respect of animals.

[familyplaytherapycenter]

A psychology of joy! Thank you Jaak! Dottie

[MargusMithical]

Truly fascinating ! His work was mentioned also in a book "Sapiens: a brief history of humanking"

[CeliaHaddoncats]

A great man. Thank you, Jaak Panksepp, for persisting in the face of scientific disapproval from the behaviourists.

[ValenciaRayMD]

Glad to see this conversation happening. In light of neuroplasticity, however, I suggest being very careful about dooming people to the fate of 'the rest of their lives' of not being able to heal their emotions or connectivity to others if they have a less than stellar childhood as far as bonding goes. I recall in medical school that we were taught years ago that after age 21 or so, our brain could not produce new brain cells...very wrong in light of neuroplasticity. I never bought into it, it made no sense. I believe our body has vast potential for healing and rejuvenation when we stop making so many assumptions that only lead to 'self-fulfilling prophecies' of the victim or fixed mindsets.

[mbunds]

One day when I was playing “chase me - chase you” with my dog, I noticed he was making a sound that wasn’t panting, but short bursts of breath that sounded like “laughter”. I discounted it, but he only makes this sound when he appears to be having great fun. Is it possible that this sound is the equivalent to human laughter?

[FCox-cyzq]

Thank-you Dr. Panksepp and rest in peace. GOD Bless you and your life's work. It has helped me and my patients immensely. My heart goes out to the family you left behind, I wish you all peace and health.

[ErmilinaLight]

Thank you for the video talk! It's been over 8 years since it appeared. I wonder what progression those tests and anti-depressants developments achieved? Are they used in real clinical practice nowadays or no?

[starseedkitty]

Wow!!!! Nine years ago 😮 this tedtalk was an epic one.

[sciotediligamteetliberfier]

He's absolutely brilliant and wonderful!