Jaak Panksepp

Jaak Panksepp was a pioneering neuroscientist known for his research on the emotional systems of the brain, particularly in animals and humans. He identified several primary emotional "affective" systems, such as seeking, fear, rage, and play, arguing that these emotions are rooted in our brain's evolution. Panksepp's work emphasized the importance of emotions in understanding behavior and mental health, suggesting that emotions are fundamental to all mammals. He also explored the role of play in development and social bonding. His insights have influenced fields like psychology, psychiatry, and even the study of animal behavior.