The Science Behind Happiness And Human Emotion

January 4, 2026 1

What does happiness really look like – and why do we feel the way we do? Scientists still debate what emotions are, how many exist, and whether they’re hardwired or shaped by experience. This segment explores how emotions guide our daily lives, and whether learning to understand them can change how we respond to the world.

Guest Information:

Andrew Ortony, Professor Emeritus of psychology, education, and computer science, Northwestern University, author, The Cognitive Structure of Emotions
Nadine Levitt, founder, WURRLYedu, author, My Mama Says