As a topic of research in psychology, emotions were treated with neglect and depreciation. However, we observe today a resurgence of interest in research of this topic. We consider it appropriate to retake and discuss some contributions of Vigotski related to emotions. This paper examined aspects pointed on the book Teoría de las emociones - estudio histórico-psicológico. He commented the dualism present in the organic theory of emotions (William James and Carl Lange). He also criticized the philosophical theories of emotions. We also pointed out the possible hindrance to support his theory of emotions on the contributions of the philosopher Spinoza: differences between the historical-dialectical materialist outlook and Rationalism-idealism of Spinoza. Although the goal of building a dialectical-materialist theory of emotion has not been reached, Vigotski innovated since sought to integrate art, ethics and science in his analysis.
emotion; psychology; Vigotski