Cercatore on Experimental Theology with Richard Beck

The neurobiology of human crying is a fascinating process and exploring its properties might be an essential prerequisite to embracing (ToM) empathy. Not only does human crying function as a social signal in a variety of contexts, but also as an interpersonal cathartic purge linked to our metaphysical condition. The Anterior Cingulate Cortex, Basal Ganglia, Thalamus, Hypothalamus, Amygdala and other brain areas, work in tandem with the Lacrimal Nerves to produce the effect for a variety of motives and reasons – gratitude, selfishness, anger, physical pain, joy, etc... It’s almost as if our brain structure itself (whether evolved, designed, or both) dynamically and harmoniously interacts to create the process both autonomically and deliberately. Paradoxically though, tears can be shed when ‘evil doesn’t triumph’ as well. There’s no guarantee that the demonstration of higher emotions; aka: “Crying & Weeping”, are going to be a reflection of an empathetic, egalitarian and balanced heart and can often be used to manipulate others for selfish and nefariously dishonest ends within certain social contexts – The insincerity of “Crocodile Tears”. Scripture basically records three times when Jesus wept (potentially there were many, many more). To think that he was overwhelmed with human emotion in those moments, is to realize and accept his full humanity, all the while knowing that he simultaneously placed his full trust and complete faith in his Father, is to see the power of his Divinity. It is an enigma that our tears both disclose our total brokenness, and yet can reveal the best of our redeemed humanity.