This course offers an in-depth exploration of research and theory on emotions that stretches across traditional psychological subdisciplines. Emotions are complex, multiply-determined phenomena — they influence our biochemistry, our thinking, our actions, our relationships, as well as our mental and physical health. The character of emotions changes over the life-course and reflects individual differences. This complexity and significance makes the study of emotions an especially exciting and challenging task for researchers. A number of recurring themes will emerge in our discussions over the course of the academic term. Among them are (1) the functions of emotions, in both present day and ancestral circumstances; (2) the ways people respond to and regulate their own emotion experiences; and (3) the extent to which cultural and gender-related differences in emotions exist. The format of this course is centered on in-class discussions of common readings and the issues these readings raise. Students are evaluated primarily based on papers, but also on class participation and a take-home final exam.