: This involves genuine feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia that mean a lot to an individual . Philosophers like Robert C. Solomon argue that sentimentality is a moral virtue , demonstrating an emotional sensitivity that is necessary for ethical life.
Authentic, immersive emotion (e.g., truly laughing or crying with a character) [10]. Often Negative sentimentality
: Critics often view sentimentality as "bad" or "immoral" because it exceeds standards of taste or appears contrived. However, some argue this is an arbitrary "allergy," noting that "mushy-gushy" moments are a real part of the human experience even if they are difficult to portray artistically without sounding cloying. : This involves genuine feelings of tenderness, sadness,
The following themes define current discussions on the topic: immersive emotion (e.g.