Heterogeneous Isomorphism and Perceptual Experience: Why Music Evokes Emotional Feelings

Yuheng Sun

Simen Owen Academic Proceedings Series, 2026, vol. 4, 11-19

Abstract: Music has long been recognized for its ability to evoke emotional responses, yet the precise mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear. Existing research often isolates individual musical elements such as rhythm, melody, and harmony, neglecting the interactions between these components. This study introduces the concept of heterogeneous isomorphism, which proposes that the emotional impact of music arises from the synergy between various musical features, rhythm, melody, harmony, and timbre. The research combines case studies, comparative analysis, and phenomenological methods to explore how these elements interact to produce complex emotional responses. The findings demonstrate that emotional experiences are intensified when musical elements work together, with cultural context playing a crucial role in shaping emotional perceptions. For example, Western listeners associate major harmonies with happiness, while Eastern listeners interpret the same music in a more nuanced, emotionally ambiguous manner. This research contributes a novel framework for understanding how music induces emotions and offers practical insights for applications in music therapy, education, and cross-cultural studies. By integrating diverse musical features and cultural perspectives, this study provides a comprehensive approach to the complex relationship between music and emotion.

Keywords: music emotion; heterogeneous isomorphism; cultural influence; emotional response; musical elements (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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