The Evolutionary Function of Awe: A Review and Integrated Model of Seven Theoretical Perspectives
Authors:
Open Access
- 29 August 2023
- journal article
- review article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Emotion Review
- Vol. 16 (1) , 46-63
Abstract
This narrative review aims to contribute to the scientific literature on awe by reviewing seven perspectives on the evolutionary function of awe. Each is presented with accompanying empirical evidence and suggestions for research investigating unanswered questions. Based on the existing perspectives, this review proposes an integrated evolutionary model of awe, postulating the evolutionary selection of awe through three adaptive domains: (1) social cooperation, (2) reflective processing, and (3) signaling suitability as a potential mate.Keywords
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