>It's also possible that I'm missing the point by comparing how I think I feel against EffectCheck's results. Maybe we're unreliable observers of how a text emotionally affects us, and EffectCheck more accurately predicts what's really going on deep in our brains. In which case, forgive my unwarranted naysaying.
Bingo. Our algorithm focuses on the lingering, subliminal emotions that you aren't necessarily aware you're feeling. Though not related to the emotions we measure, one commonly-referenced study shows that if you're walking down the street and you see a big sign with the word "ELDERLY" written on it, you'll actually walk slower without realizing it [1]. Lots of words have these subconscious impacts and you simply cannot accurately poll your own brain to determine how you feel.
Bingo. Our algorithm focuses on the lingering, subliminal emotions that you aren't necessarily aware you're feeling. Though not related to the emotions we measure, one commonly-referenced study shows that if you're walking down the street and you see a big sign with the word "ELDERLY" written on it, you'll actually walk slower without realizing it [1]. Lots of words have these subconscious impacts and you simply cannot accurately poll your own brain to determine how you feel.
[1] See "Stumbling on Happiness" for a great overview of this study: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400077427/ref=as_li_ss_tl?...