THE ROLE OF EMOTIONS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Abstract

In the field of international relations, scientific research of emotions as an in- tegral component of international relations is a relatively new and diverse phe- nomenon. As self-evident and irrational by-products of cognitive processes, emotions remained under-theorized until recently, but it is already possible to assert the existence of a solid consensus in the field of international relations regarding the significant importance of emotions for international and glob- al politics. The intellectual roots of emotions stem from various disciplines, among which psychology, neuroscience, sociology, history, and cultural stud- ies are distinguished, and this diversity is reflected in the scientific and research search for appropriate ways to study emotions and their political consequenc- es in the field of international relations. Emotions are embedded in the social and/or cultural aspects of all world environments and are closely structured about their dominant interests, values and aspirations. Emotions are considered a fundamental and integral part of individual and socio-political life. A key shift in understanding the relationship between emotion and rationality is cur- rently taking place, as the classical vision of emotion-free rationality is fanci- ful. Furthermore, emotions are intrinsically linked to the discourses and social structures that shape global society. There are two areas of study of emotions in international relations: the study of the relationship between individual and collective emotions and the study of emotions in connection with the dynamics and structure of power institutions. Scholars are working to uncover different types of emotional practices, their political consequences, and political strug- gles within both micro- and macro-politics in international relations. In other words, the everyday politics of emotions allows us to explore who can express emotions, what emotions are perceived as (il)legitimate or (un)desirable, and how and why emotions are spread. The social, collective and political nature of emotions contributes not only to the rationality of collective decision-making and the implementation of political actions but also to the conceptualization of this or that emotion as a form of action with subsequent political changes on the world stage.