Politics of Emotions and Affective Polarization

Emotions are a critical force in shaping partisanship, issue positions, and political behavior in modern democracies. This panel will explore the complex relationship between emotions and politics, focusing on how emotions like fear, anger, and hope influence political polarization, the information-seeking process, and voter behavior. The rise of social media has intensified the role of emotions, amplifying confirmation bias and creating echo chambers that contribute to affective polarization. This panel will investigate the multidimensional role of emotions in politics, using various theoretical and empirical approaches. By analyzing emotional contagion, the strategic manipulation of emotions by political actors, and the role of emotions in authoritarian backsliding, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of the emotional undercurrents that drive democratic erosion or stability.