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1. What are the purposes of emotions? How have they helped human survival, according to the author in Part One: Chapter 1, “What Are Emotions For?”

Emotions, like instincts, have helped humans survive by driving them to action. Each basic emotion, such as anger, fear, happiness, love, surprise, disgust and sadness, triggers specific biological responses to prepare the body for action.

2. The growth of the human fetal brain parallels the evolution of the brain in other species. What is the first part of the brain to develop and what purpose does this part of the brain serve?

The first part to grow is the brainstem. The brainstem is the posterior part of the brain, adjoining and structurally continuous with the spinal cord. The brainstem regulates breathing, digestion and other life-sustaining functions like arousal.

3. Where in the brain is the limbic system located? What purpose does this section of the brain serve?

The limbic system is the emotional part of the brain. It looks like a ring that sits over the brainstem. The limbic system enhances memory and learning by attaching emotion to experiences. Passions are generated by the limbic system.

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