Olivia+Noë+RP+Post+1

(A)I intend to write an informative paper that focuses on the effects of music on one’s emotions and feelings. The topic stems from my passion for music and my extensive record collection, including the classics. This approach will allow me to present my findings in a clear and concise way while explaining the major concepts associated with the reactions that people have as a result of music. Additionally, this paper is similar to an extended definition essay but there is freedom to write about a wide range of ideas instead of a particular concept. Also, while exploring this concept I will explain the effects that music has on the nervous system and how this stimulates such an emotional response. By exploring the effects of music, I along with the readers will begin to understand the immense and complex effects that do not even begin to explain what music is or what it does. (B)Questions about Paper – (A)Research Questions – (A)Background – I do not really know the actual effects that music has on one’s emotions; however, based on personal experience I know that it is possible to form a connection to music and to have an emotional response. Additionally, after much observation, I can easily tell the type/genre that one is listening to based on one’s facial expressions. Usually when the music is upbeat then the one is happy; however, this is not always true, as this concept does not apply to me. I am the happiest listening to Simple Plan, Dave Matthews or The Cure. (B)Early Findings – (1) Upon listening to a short segment of music, one initially creates an emotional response to match that of the piece. Though, this quickly changes based on the person. (2) There are two different types of emotions: felt and perceived § Perceived – having a reaction without even truly feeling it § Explains why people keep listening to sad music (3) Music can be used as a therapy to improve mood
 * I. ** **  Presentation of Research Findings:  **
 * Can this paper apply to topics that are not associated with the future of science or business?
 * Should this paper focus on the body’s reaction to music or a more wide range of topics associated with how music affects emotions?
 * How should this paper introduce the topic? Define musical effects? Explain bodily reactions? Describe the process behind creating music that has such influential results?
 * II. ** **  The Pursuit of New Knowledge:  **
 * How does music influence emotions/feelings?
 * Why do people revert back to classics (i.e. Chuck Taylors)?
 * What impact does one’s birthplace have on one’s decisions throughout life?
 * Coulrophobia – Why are people deathly afraid of clowns, including me?
 * What effect does captivation have on wild animals such as killer whales and dolphins?
 * III. **** Background and Early Knowledge: **

(A)Why? – (B) Motivation – (C) Direction of the Paper – The paper could take many possible directions just based on the extensive research available because of the various psychological and physiological effects. I think that I will start by explaining the effects that music has on the nervous system and how the type of music explains one’s personality. I can start from here and then see where it goes. (D)Potential Drawbacks – Just the amount of information available can change the direction of the paper in an instant (E)Why pursue the topic? – The topic is worthwhile because of the personal connection that I have to music. This will allow me to make it through the rough patches and finish the paper.
 * IV.Rationale: **
 * I am always interested in the psychological and physiological effects that particular things have on people
 * My love of music and curiosity inspired this question, as well as my extensive record collection because records help express character through the unique scratches
 * Based on personal experience – i.e. reactions to music myself and observations of other people’s reactions toward music
 * Personal interest – record collection; interest in music; how music expresses one’s character and personality