Cannon–Bard theory
the theory that emotional states result from the influence of lower brain centers (the hypothalamus and thalamus) on higher ones (the cortex), rather than from sensory feedback to the brain produced by peripheral internal organs and voluntary musculature. According to this theory, the thalamus controls the experience of emotion, and the hypothalamus controls the expression of emotion, both of which occur simultaneously. Also called Bard–Cannon theory; Cannon’s theory; hypothalamic theory of Cannon; thalamic theory of Cannon. See also fight-or-flight response. [proposed in the 1920s and early 1930s by Walter B. Cannon and Philip Bard (1898–1977), U.S. physiologist]