“Smile in your liver,” Bali medicine man Ketut Liyer urges Elizabeth Gilbert in the author’s iconic memoir, Eat, Pray, Love. The sentiment is heartwarming, but it likely left some readers wondering: How do you smile, or express any emotion at all, in your liver?
While many modern-day humans aren’t familiar with this concept, the ancient Mesopotamians certainly were. Thanks to new research from Finland’s Aalto University, we now have a better understanding of how our ancestors in this region associated emotions with different parts of the body. The Mesopotamians observed anger in their legs and feet, while they felt happiness in — you guessed it — their livers.
Figure: Modern/PNAS: Lauri Nummenmaa et al., Mesopotamian: Juha Lahnakoski.
“If you compare the ancient Mesopotamian bodily map of happiness with modern bodily maps [published by fellow Finnish scientist, Lauri Nummenmaa and colleagues a decade ago], it is largely similar, with the exception of a notable glow in the liver,” cognitive neuroscientist Juha Lahnakoski said in a news release.
To glean this information, the research team analyzed 1 million words of the Semitic language Akkadian, written on clay tablets in cuneiform from 934-612 B.C. They looked for “consistent relationships between linguistic expressions related to both emotions and bodily sensations,” per the Dec. 4 study.
For instance, the ancient writers frequently described feeling “open,” “shining,” or “full” in the liver when indicating happiness. Then, the researchers calculated statistical regularities between the emotional verbiage and language referring to body parts.
The result? Bodily sensation maps that display patterns for 18 separate emotions specified by the Mesopotamians, including surprise, envy, and pride. The researchers concluded that the ancient humans related sympathy and schadenfreude (a positive reaction to someone else’s misfortune) to the chest, throat, and lower face; desire to the liver, heart, and legs; and fear to everywhere except the hands and upper head.
“Even in ancient Mesopotamia, there was a rough understanding of anatomy, for example the importance of the heart, liver, and lungs,” University of Helsinki professor Saana Svärd explained in the release.
Aside from differences around happiness, another aspect of this data varies widely from analyses of where emotions are felt in the body today. Participants in the 2014 study by Nummenmaa reported experiencing anger primarily in the head, torso, and arms, which lines up with terms like “boiling over,” “seeing red,” and being a “hot head” that modern English speakers commonly use to express the emotion. But these descriptors starkly contrast with those from our Mesopotamian ancestors, who referenced anger in relation to the opposite end of the body.
Figure: Modern/PNAS: Lauri Nummenmaa et al., Mesopotamian: Juha Lahnakoski.
However, the team behind the 2024 research added that as accurate as their data is, emotions are subjective enough that it’s tough to make definitive conclusions about how they’re felt for humans as a whole. “It remains to be seen whether we can say something in the future about what kind of emotional experiences are typical for humans in general,” Svärd noted, adding, “we have to keep in mind that texts are texts and emotions are lived and experienced.”
And yet, because this is the first instance of researchers using quantitative analysis of ancient Near Eastern texts to associate emotions with body parts, the work opens the door to further exploration into intercultural differences (and similarities) in emotional experiences across time.
Stories like this remind us of the power of human ingenuity and compassion. In a world where headlines are often dominated by negativity, it is refreshing to see developments that inspire hope and positive change. The story behind happy livers and angry feet: study reveals where the ancient mesopotamians felt emotions is one that resonates with people across different backgrounds and cultures, highlighting the universal desire for progress and connection.
Medical breakthroughs continue to reshape our understanding of human health. Researchers around the world are collaborating on innovative treatments and preventive measures that could improve the quality of life for millions of people. From advanced diagnostic tools to personalized medicine, the healthcare landscape is evolving at a remarkable pace. These developments are not just about extending lifespans but also about enhancing the daily well-being of individuals living with chronic conditions or facing new health challenges.
Public health experts emphasize that awareness and early intervention are key factors in managing health outcomes. Community health programs, educational initiatives, and accessible healthcare services play a vital role in ensuring that advancements reach the people who need them most. The integration of technology into healthcare delivery has also opened new possibilities for remote monitoring, telemedicine consultations, and data-driven treatment plans that can be tailored to individual needs.
Scientific discovery has always been driven by curiosity and the desire to understand the world around us. Modern research tools and international collaboration have accelerated the pace of discoveries, leading to breakthroughs that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space, scientists are uncovering secrets that reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The importance of funding scientific research cannot be overstated. Government grants, private foundations, and university programs all contribute to creating an ecosystem where innovative ideas can be tested and validated. Public engagement with science through museums, documentaries, and educational outreach programs helps build a society that values evidence-based thinking and supports the continued pursuit of knowledge for the benefit of future generations.
Wildlife conservation efforts have gained significant momentum in recent years as more people recognize the importance of protecting biodiversity. From habitat restoration projects to breeding programs for endangered species, conservationists are working tirelessly to ensure that future generations can experience the rich diversity of animal life on our planet. The connection between healthy ecosystems and human well-being has become increasingly clear, driving both policy changes and grassroots action around the world.
Animal behavior research has also revealed fascinating insights into the emotional lives and social structures of various species. Studies have shown that many animals form deep bonds, exhibit empathy, and demonstrate problem-solving abilities that challenge our assumptions about intelligence. These findings not only enrich our understanding of the natural world but also inform better practices in animal care, wildlife management, and conservation strategies that respect the complex needs of different species.
Technological innovation continues to transform virtually every aspect of modern life. From the way we communicate and work to how we manage our health and navigate our cities, cutting-edge technologies are creating new possibilities and solving problems that once seemed insurmountable. The rapid pace of development in fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy is opening doors to a future that looks vastly different from even a decade ago.
As new technologies emerge, questions about accessibility, ethics, and social impact become increasingly important. Ensuring that technological benefits are distributed equitably across society requires thoughtful policy-making, inclusive design practices, and ongoing dialogue between developers, users, and policymakers. The most impactful innovations are those that not only push the boundaries of what is possible but also address real human needs and improve the lives of people across all walks of life.
Art and creative expression have always played a fundamental role in how we process emotions, communicate ideas, and build connections across cultures. Whether through visual arts, music, literature, or performance, creative works have the power to inspire, challenge, and heal. In an increasingly digital world, artists are finding new ways to reach audiences and create experiences that bridge traditional and contemporary forms of expression.
Supporting the arts through public funding, community spaces, and educational programs is essential for maintaining a vibrant cultural landscape. Studies have consistently shown that engagement with the arts improves mental health, enhances cognitive abilities, and strengthens community bonds. By valuing and investing in creative endeavors, societies foster innovation, empathy, and a sense of shared identity that enriches the lives of all their members.
The power of community action is evident in countless stories of individuals coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether through organized volunteer programs or spontaneous acts of kindness, these efforts demonstrate the profound impact that compassion and generosity can have on both individuals and entire neighborhoods. Research has consistently shown that communities with strong social connections experience better health outcomes, lower crime rates, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Building stronger communities requires intentional effort and ongoing commitment from people of all ages and backgrounds. Mentorship programs, neighborhood gatherings, and collaborative projects create opportunities for meaningful connection and mutual support. In an era where digital communication often replaces face-to-face interaction, the importance of fostering genuine human connections through community engagement has never been more apparent or more necessary.
Looking ahead, developments like the one described in this story offer a glimpse into a future filled with possibility and positive change. While challenges certainly remain, the creativity, determination, and compassion demonstrated by the individuals and organizations involved serve as a powerful reminder that progress is always within reach when people are willing to work together toward a common goal.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, stories like these provide both inspiration and practical examples of how innovation, kindness, and perseverance can make a real difference. By sharing and celebrating these achievements, we not only honor the efforts of those involved but also encourage others to pursue their own ideas for creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
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