As such, emotions communicate (37) messages below our level of awareness.

Mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 34 to 38.

Many would consider emotions to be a hindrance to decision-making and, therefore, think that they would be better off without them. They may avoid or suppress them, rather than feel, process and understand their meaning. When it (34) _______ to the decision-making process, they would prefer to be thoughtful rather than emotional. (35) _______, emotions have their own values. It appears that without emotions to motivate and push us, we would be passive and do nothing. Decisions are very much informed by our emotional state since this is what emotions are designed to do. Emotions quickly summarize an experience, and (36) _______ it to inform our decision, so we can rapidly respond to the situation. While emotions serve to direct us, they are driven by our automatic survival nature. As such, emotions communicate (37) _______ messages below our level of awareness. It is important to note that because of their speed and survival purpose, emotions are not particularly accurate. Their speed and effectiveness, (38) _______ compensate their lack of specificity and detail, are notable.