∆x = x₂ - x₁
Idea of the Day: "Nothing can come out of a person except that which is already within him." -Udochi Okeke
∆x is a derivative of x₂ - x₁ based on x₂'s understanding of x₁.
I'm thinking of giving each emotion a numerical value.
If x₂ understands x₁ as anger the displacement will result in an intensity of anger that is dependent on the value of x₂.
The ability to displace depends on the amount of emotional leverage a person, circumstance or object has over you.
When people have preconceived notions about a person, place, thing, concept or circumstance, it takes a certain dynamic to change their mind.
There are ultimately two "emotions" (for lack of a better word): pain and pleasure.