Emotion, Reason, and Political Power

Study of way in which philosophers, social theorists, cognitive scientists, and neuroscientists have characterized relationship between rationality, emotions, and participation in political life. Basic theoretical issues in emotion theory. Social constructivism versus basic emotion theory. Primary and complex emotions. Emotion classification models. Study of pride—shame and aggression—alarm systems. Anger and fear in relation to social-dominance hierarchies. Emphasis on anger, hatred, and resentment as key political emotions. Management and control of emotions. Emotions of powerlessness and empowerment. Alienation, anomie, and emotions.

P/NP or letter grading.