Lange theory of emotion

The Lange theory of emotion, proposed by Danish physiologist Carl Lange, suggests that our feelings arise from our physiological responses to stimuli. According to this theory, we first experience physical reactions—like increased heart rate or sweating—when faced with an emotional situation. Then, we interpret these bodily sensations as specific emotions, such as fear or joy. For instance, if you see a bear and your heart races, you recognize that physical response as fear. Essentially, Lange believed that our emotions are shaped by how we perceive and understand our bodily reactions to the world around us.