Recognition of emotion in others

This chapter argues that recognition of emotion has a simple basis and a highly complex edifice above it. Its basis is formed by catching intent from expressive and other emotional behavior, using elementary principles of perceptual integration. In intent recognition, mirror neurons under particular circumstances do play a role, but under other circumstances visual perception and prediction may suffice. To arrive at full understanding of emotions of others, and in particular to arrive at empathy, much more elaborate information, and activities of mentalising, are required. Keywords: emotion recognition; emotional behavior; intent understanding; mentalizing.