On the Secondary Intentionality of Emotions

Abstract

This article outlines a phenomenological map of affectivity, based on the classification proposed by Scheler. Two faculties are distinguished: “affective perception” (Fühlen) —which is intentional and aims to values— and “emotional states” (Gefühlszustände) —which lack the strict intentionality of affective perception—. Classic emotions are included in emotional states and divided into two groups: “affective responses” and “mere emotions” (emotionale ‘Antwortsreaktionen’ and Affekte in Scheler’s terminology). Affective responses lack the strict intentionality of affective perception but possess a “secondary intentionality” which is “right” due to its adequacy to affective perception; in mere emotions the secondary intentionality is “unright” or even disappears.