Emotions in late modernity

Abstract

The experience, presentation and management of emotions have changed from earlier classical/modern periods to contemporary times. However, there is only a piecemeal literature to this effect, connecting the history and sociology of emotions. Reviewing the literature, and building on Giddens’ notion that we now live in individualised, reflexive late modernity, we identify five key changes. (i) Emotions are now seen as non-dualistic, more complex phenomena, with new emotions – such as intimate ‘pure relations’ and ambivalence – emerging. (ii) Emotions are more individualised , and seen as a private responsibility and expense. (iii) Emotion and consumption are intertwined more intimately now than at any other point in history. (iv) Emotions are increasingly mediated by mass broadcast and micro (interactive) social media networks. (v) Finally, emotions now require continuous reflexive monitoring, feedback and management , as part of the process of crafting individual identities, and ‘macro-reflexively’ defining and contesting emotive global phenomena (e.g., terrorism).

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