Is autopoietic systems theory alexithymic? Luhmann and the socio-psychology of emotions

After a critical examination of Luhmann’s observations concerning the emotions, a theory is developed according to which emotional processes are situated in the zones of structural coupling between organic, psychic and social systems. The theory draws attention to a substantive historical link between rights and emotions. This link is illustrated with some broad examples dealing with specific emotions, and with the generic concept of emotion.