Computational Neuroecology of Communicated Somatic Markers

The somatic marker hypothesis offers a physiological basis for emotion. Somatic markers are thought to stem from basic survival behaviors, and it has been hypothesized that emotional communication can increase the survival rate of a population. We investigate these neuroecological questions in predator-prey simulations by exploring the effect of communicated somatic markers on individuals and their ecology in order to establish an understanding of their evolvability. In particular, we show how fear, happiness, and to a lesser extent surprise, can be favored by natural selection.