Somatic Marker Hypothesis

The Basic Idea

Have you ever asked for advice on a nerve-racking, high-stakes decision and received vague advice to “follow your heart” or “go with your gut”? Although you may have wanted more concrete suggestions, according to neuroscientist Antonio Damasio, those clichés may have a point. Damasio’s somatic marker hypothesis (SMH) states that by creating physiological responses, emotions can influence future decision-making processes. This influence can occur both consciously and unconsciously and helps us make difficult decisions quickly.

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I continue to be fascinated by the fact that feelings are not just the shady side of reason but that they help us to reach decisions as well.


– Neurologist, Dr. Antonio R. Damasio, in an interview with Scientific American

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