Are fictional emotions SUI generis?

Abstract

In this master‟s thesis, I address the question whether fictional emotions are sui generis or whether they are reducible to genuine emotions. I argue that we can neither put fictional emotions in a different category nor we can reduce them to genuine emotions. The reason is that since there is a continuum between belief and imagination, there is also a continuum between fictional and genuine emotions. To defend my argument I take into account of Susanna Schellenberg‟s continuum thesis (SCT) on belief and imagination and my argument relies on a slightly reconsidered version (RCT) of SCT. I suggest that an analysis of how the mind of the Reality TV Show audience is, which might be put forth as a new miscegenated genre, supports the RCT. Furthermore, I believe that recognizing the continuity between fictional and genuine emotions should lead us to reconsider on responses to the paradox of fiction.