This book outlines some of the latest scientific ideas about the emotions in an accessible and exciting way. Dylan Evans shows that emotions are not just luxuries, but help us to live more successful lives. Drawing on research in psychology, biology, and artificial intelligence, he provides a stimulating introduction to a topic relevant to us all.

Acknowledgements ; Preface ; 1. The universal language ; 2. Why Spock could never have evolved ; 3. Shortcuts to happiness ; 4. The head and the heart ; 5. The computer that cried ; References ; Further reading ; Index

Review from previous edition a pop science classic * John Walsh, Independent on Sunday *Evans provides a charming crash course on human sentiments * The Times, *a fun little book . . .Highly accessible, this little gem deserves to sell well . . . student friendly . . . excellent introductory book * Simon Baron-Cohen, Nature *readable and thought provoking account * Susan Aldridge, Focus *Evans roams enjoyably through the firelds of psychology, psychotherapy, robotics, drugs and old-fashioned romance, like Alian de Botton in a labcoat * The Guardian (Review) *This book is a charming primer on the up-and-coming science of emotions. * James Kingsland New Scientist *An admirably clear, intelligent and witty introduction * Steven Poole, Guardian *a wealth of good sense backed by evidence * Marek Kohn, Evening Standard *a witty little book * Iain Finlayson, The Times *At last, an accessible and fascinating account of a neglected aspect of our mental lives. * Lewis Wolpert, author of "Malignant Sadness" *

Dylan Evans is a Research Fellow in the Department of Philosophy at King's College London, where he directs a research project in the evolution of the emotions. In his previous lives, he worked as a film-maker and psychotherapist. He is the author of Introducing Evolutionary Psychology (Icon, 1999) and Rethinking Emotion (MIT Press, forthcoming), and contributes regularly to the Guardian. In his spare time he is also a DJ.