The study of affective processes in political contexts: accomplishments and challenges

Abstract

People experience intense emotions when it comes to politics. One could even say that emotions are at the core of politics and that political processes cannot be understood without considering affective phenomena like fear, hate, anger, and even disgust. The emotions are experienced and expressed by leaders and laypeople alike, during political campaigns, in interpersonal political discussions in the workplace, and on social media. The political world is so emotional because it contains all of the ingredients to make people experience intense emotions. It encompasses issues that are central and sometimes even existential to almost all people. It engages one’s identity and group belonging, thus continuously amplifying people’s emotional reactions. And, of course, it generates the kind of competitive atmosphere and dynamics that spur conflict—between competing ideologies and among ethnic groups and nations.