Political participation and emotions

Abstract

The idea of political participation has been raised in philosophy and political theory as a form of rational action guided by institutional processes and motivated by interests, however, to occupy a place as an expression of public will, it needs to be formalized. Participation, although motivated by personal content, is expected to become a rational product of general interest. Emotions in this process, although relevant since they are considered triggers for participation, are suppressed once the political process is done. Here we contest this transformation as something difficult to come to terms with. Emotions, despite their disruptive nature, are present throughout the political process. It is necessary, therefore, to reassess the role of emotions in the field of political participation, to know their mechanisms of appearance, response and adaptation to the rationalization process and their impact on the constitution of politics.