What are some examples of basic emotions?

Basic emotions refer to universal emotional experiences that are widely recognized across different cultures and are fundamental to human psychology. The correct choice includes interest, happiness, anger, fear, surprise, sadness, and disgust, which are recognized as basic emotions established by psychologists such as Paul Ekman.

These emotions are considered basic because they are innate and typically arise quickly in response to specific stimuli. They serve essential functions in human behavior and communication. For example, happiness can signal safety and social connection, while fear can trigger the fight-or-flight response to threats. Each emotion plays a crucial role in our interactions with others and our understanding of the world around us.

The other options provided include emotions that are either more complex or less universally recognized. While emotions such as envy, pride, shame, and guilt exist and are significant, they are typically understood as secondary or self-conscious emotions that develop from social interactions and personal reflections rather than being basic emotional responses.