Manchester University Press proudly announces the release of the highly anticipated second edition of “The History of Emotions,” providing an updated and comprehensive critical overview of this rapidly evolving field of emotions studies.
This second edition reaffirms the book’s status as the go-to resource for scholars, students, and practitioners alike. Offering an in-depth exploration into the intricate tapestry of human emotions, this edition captures the dynamic nature of the field and provides invaluable insights into its evolution.
Building on the success of the first edition, the second edition offers expanded insights into historical contexts, cultural influences, and the intersection of emotions with power dynamics, societal practices, and morality.
The Landscape of Emotion Research:
The history of emotions delves into the rich tapestry of human feelings, examining their evolution over time and their profound impact on societies and individuals. Central areas of concern within this field include the cultural construction of emotions, the ways emotions are expressed and regulated, and how societal norms shape emotional experiences.
This interdisciplinary endeavor involves collaboration with psychology, sociology, anthropology, literature, and other fields. Emotion research is not confined to individual psychology; it spans the broader landscape of human experience, touching on collective emotions, societal expectations, and historical shifts in emotional norms.
Emotions and Historical Research in The History of Emotions, second edition:
The intersection of emotions with broader historical research is a captivating lens through which we can understand the dynamics of power, societal practices, and moral frameworks. Emotions are not isolated occurrences but are deeply entwined with historical contexts, shaping and shaped by the socio-political landscape.
1. Power Dynamics:
Emotions play a pivotal role in understanding power dynamics throughout history. The emotional responses of individuals in positions of power and those subjected to it shape the narrative of historical events. Exploring how emotions influence decision-making, resistance, and submission provides invaluable insights into the dynamics of power.
2. Social Practices:
Societal norms and practices are inherently emotional. The history of emotions sheds light on how certain emotional expressions become accepted or rejected within a given society. Emotions influence rituals, cultural practices, and societal expectations, contributing to the social fabric that defines communities across time.
3. Morality:
Morality, a cornerstone of human societies, is deeply entangled with emotions. The history of emotions unveils moral codes and ethical frameworks, showcasing how emotions have been used to enforce or challenge prevailing moral standards. It prompts us to reflect on the emotional dimensions of ethical decision-making and the evolving nature of moral principles.
Interdisciplinary Insights:
Embracing interdisciplinary perspectives enriches our understanding of the value and meaning of human experience. Collaborations between fields create a holistic approach to studying emotions, recognizing their role in shaping cultural identities, historical narratives, and individual lives.
The value of interdisciplinary research lies in its ability to bridge gaps and foster a more comprehensive understanding of complex phenomena. Emotions, as integral aspects of human experience, benefit from a multifaceted examination that draws on diverse academic traditions. This collaborative approach encourages scholars to transcend disciplinary boundaries and engage in a collective exploration of the nuanced tapestry of human emotions.
The History of Emotions – second edition
by Rob Boddice