The Moon Controls Human Emotions

Exploring the Belief in Lunar Influence on Psychological States

Details

It is believed that the moon, particularly when full, directly influences human emotional states, causing increased aggression, emotional instability, erratic behavior, and even psychological disturbances. This lunar influence allegedly affects people regardless of their awareness.

Historical Context

The concept of lunar emotional influence appears in ancient medical texts:
• Greek physician Hippocrates wrote in the 5th century BCE that “one who is seized with terror, fright and madness during the night is being visited by the goddess of the moon”
• Roman natural philosopher Pliny the Elder documented correlations between moon phases and mental states
• Medieval European medical traditions classified certain mental conditions as “lunacy” (from Latin luna meaning moon)
• Traditional Chinese medicine associated the moon with emotional imbalances related to yin energy

The term “lunatic” directly stems from the belief in the moon’s control over mental health.

Modern Relevance

Despite numerous scientific studies finding no significant correlation between lunar phases and psychological conditions, belief in “the lunar effect” remains remarkably widespread. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that 45% of medical professionals believed in lunar effects on behavior. Emergency rooms, police departments, and psychiatric facilities worldwide informally report increased activity during full moons, though statistical analyses generally fail to confirm these perceptions.

Sources

Raison, C.L., Klein, H.M., & Steckler, M. (1999). “The moon and madness reconsidered.” Journal of Affective Disorders, 53(1), 99–106.
Campbell, D.E., & Beets, J.L. (1978). “Lunacy and the moon.” Psychological Bulletin, 85(5), 1123–1129.