Page:The Harveian Oration,1902.djvu/54

 ful—is always associated with characteristic and uniform changes in the circulation is still the subject of considerable difference of opinion. It is probable that the discrepancies are largely occasioned by the fact that the characters of feelings are, as maintained by Wundt, much more complex than can be expressed in simple terms of pleasure or pain. For besides being pleasurable or the reverse (Lust—Unlust), feelings are exciting or soothing (Erregung—Beruhigung), straining or relaxing (Spannung—Losung), and vary in intensity. And Brahm holds that each of these conditions has its specific influence on the circulation, hence the results may so vary in different individuals that absolute uniformity probably does not exist. Apart from the suddenness of the change from a state of repose to a state of activity, whether this be indifferent, such as mere surprise, or of a painful or pleasurable character, the balance of evidence is in favour of the view that pleasurable sensations and emotions are accompanied by vascular dilatation and low tension, while the contrary are associated with vascular