From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, cognition is not superior to emotion. IPNB emphasizes integration and the equal importance of all brain functions.The brain and nervous system work best when integration occurs between different parts (cognitive, emotional, sensory, etc.).
Rather than a hierarchy where cognition is “superior” to emotion, IPNB holds that emotions and cognition are both vital, and they influence each other in a bidirectional manner. For example, emotional states can shape cognitive processes, and cognition can help regulate emotions, but neither is “superior.”
Research, including findings from affective neuroscience, suggests that emotions often arise before cognitive processes. Emotions are quick, automatic responses that prepare the body to act. Cognition comes in afterward to evaluate or make sense of emotional experiences. In this way, cognition doesn’t dominate emotion but helps us reflect on emotional states and decide how to respond.
From an IPNB standpoint, emotions are deeply connected to bodily sensations (somatic experience) and are not just mental phenomena. Emotion is not something that needs to be mediated or controlled by cognition, but rather it needs to be experienced and integrated. Sometimes, emotions are better regulated by grounding in the body or connecting with others rather than relying on cognitive evaluation alone.
Rather than cognition “making an object” of emotion to mediate it, IPNB would suggest that cognition and emotion co-create meaning. Cognitive processes can help make sense of emotion, but emotions also guide cognitive functions like decision-making, problem-solving, and attention. Both are needed for whole-brain integration and optimal functioning.
Emotions are often shaped and processed through relationships and social interactions. IPNB highlights that emotions are not isolated from context; they are deeply tied to social engagement. Cognition alone doesn’t mediate emotions; co-regulation with others is a significant factor in how emotions are experienced and processed.
From an IPNB perspective, the idea that cognition is higher misses the mark by implying a hierarchical relationship where cognition is “superior” and mediates emotion. In contrast, IPNB holds that both cognition and emotion are essential and interdependent. Healthy emotional regulation occurs when integration happens across the different parts of the brain, body, and within relationships, rather than through one domain dominating the other.
This post includes content generated by ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI. The AI-generated content has been reviewed and edited for accuracy and relevance.
