Opponent processes and anxiety: toward a neurophysiological formulation

As a general philosophical framework, the author presents a theoretical position according to which 'opposition' is at the heart of the workings of the living being and the very origins of life. He then deals with 'opposing processes' and neural mechanisms which appear to underlie them. The theory rests on the premise that a great number of our actions are derived from our emotions, and that the coupling of pleasure/suffering controls the expression of our desires. Developed in the 1970s, this theory is founded on the observation of dependence phenomena (addictions), but its value extends far beyond drugs, to all types of human conduct, including sexuality, play, alimentary behaviours, etc. Inconsistent with classical theories, it subordinates the act to an affective state. The author finally examines the phenomenon of anxiety in the light of these considerations.