Wonder - Wikipedia Wonder is an emotion comparable to surprise that people feel when perceiving something rare or unexpected. Unlike surprise, however, it is more definitely positive in valence and can endure for longer periods. It has also been specifically linked with curiosity, magic and the drive for scientific investigation. Wonder is also often compared to the emotion of awe but awe implies fear or respect rather than joy. While wonder is said to be the emotion leading to science, awe is often associated with the miracles and supernatural occurrences described in revealed religions such as Christianity.