Research from The University of Manchester has revealed how everyday emotions and experiences play a crucial role in shaping political processes. Published in the journal Progress in Human Geography, the study led by Niamh Nelson-Owens suggests that ordinary feelings, often overlooked, can significantly influence political change.
Understanding Ordinary Affects
Traditionally, political analysis focuses on major events such as elections, protests, or high-profile debates. However, Nelson-Owens argues that this perspective neglects an essential aspect of how politics operates. Her research highlights the impact of simple, everyday interactions—such as conversations in cafes or observations while walking through city squares—on political sentiment and behavior.
According to Nelson-Owens, emotions like hope, frustration, and unease can subtly migrate between individuals, influencing collective political attitudes. “My research rethinks how political change might happen,” she stated. “We often focus on flashpoints or dramatic events in the formal realm of ‘politics’, but I suggest that change can also emerge in more ordinary ways, through how we feel as much as what we say.”
Implications for Activism
This approach to understanding political dynamics offers valuable insights for activists. It emphasizes that significant social change does not solely stem from large protests or speeches. Instead, it can arise from small acts of kindness, everyday resistance, or brief, thought-provoking encounters. These fleeting moments can sow the seeds for broader movements and challenge existing power structures.
Nelson-Owens’ research particularly focuses on vegan activism in Manchester, where she observed the emotional responses elicited by graphic imagery in public spaces. Such images not only provoke deep discussions about ethics but can also lead to discomfort or disengagement among passersby. Despite the transient nature of these reactions, they have the potential to inspire lasting change.
The findings encourage a reevaluation of how political processes are perceived, suggesting that they are not confined to the legislative realm but are also woven into daily life, conversations, and emotional experiences. By acknowledging the power of ordinary affects, activists and citizens alike can better understand the undercurrents that drive political engagement and change.
