Social Emotions 



Raph Koster’s A Theory of Fun For Game Design is full of insight on what makes games fun. But oddly enough, the part I keep wanting to refer to is his summary on page 92 of “positive emotions surrounding interpersonal interactions.” They are:

“Schadenfreude, the gloating feeling you get when a rival fails at something. This is, in essence, a put down.

“Fiero, the expression of triumph when you have achieved a significant task (pumping your fist, for example). This is a signal to others that you are valuable.

“Naches, the feeling you get when someone you mentor succeeds. This is a clear feedback mechanism for tribal continuance.

“Kvel, the emotion you feel when bragging about someone you mentor. This is also a signal that you are valuable.

“Grooming Behaviors, a signal of intimacy often representing relative social status.

“Feeding other people, which is a very important social signal in human societies.” 

Posted: Tue - October 17, 2006 at 11:28 PM          

©