HOW THE BRAIN MAKES POTENTIAL 189sory systems. It also has rich beds of chemoreceptors monitoring the
internal state— the homeo- dynamics—of the body. Th ey respond to en-
vironmental perturbations (as signaled from the senses) by stimulating
endocrine glands (as well as creating many other aspects of feelings).
Much of this is done through the neighboring pituitary gland, with which
the hypothalamus is densely connected. Th at, in turn, secretes a wide
range of hormones into the circulation to infl uence functions elsewhere
in the body, like the release of adrenaline in readiness for muscle action.
In addition, all the sensory systems share rich reciprocal connections
with a number of other subcortical networks (e.g., the amygdala), also
concerned with monitoring and modulating feelings. Fi nally, there is
intense interplay between the hippocampus and amygdala as well as
other centers constituting the limbic system. Th e result is to interrelate
external and internal sensations, creating emotional states and degrees
of motivation for response.^23
Th e outputs from these interactions provide the brain with an aff ec-
tive image, or “feeling,” including motivational state. Th is promotes, in-
hibits, or helps shape responses in brain networks, aff ecting numerous
aspects of be hav ior. Stimuli, and constructs created in the networks, may
be quickly identifi ed as potentially signifi cant or other wise by these
aff ective mechanisms. Th e latter, in turn, amplify the pro cessing, bring
additional attention mechanisms to bear, and so help shape perception
in a continuous cycle.
Of course, “hot” feelings or emotions used to be considered to be the
enemy of a “cool brain.” However, the degree of collaboration among
sensory, aff ective, and other cortical centers now suggests other wise. All
cognitive activities have an emotional value, refl ecting inner states. It is
such embodiment that contextualizes what goes on in the brain, enhanc-
ing it as an intelligent system. Such is oft en the basis of creative imagination
and innovation. Th is is how we can distinguish cognition from the cold
computations of a mechanical robot. Many prob lems arise from the dis-
rupted integration of cognitive- emotional, self- regulatory pro cesses.^24
In that way, experienced objects, events, and relations come to have
emotional values attached to them. In human social relations— especially
in class- structured socie ties of symbolism, privilege, and deprivation—
such values can be very strong. Th eir meanings (or what they predict)
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