62 pages • 2 hours read
The Cultural Politics of Emotion
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Book Brief
232
Book • Nonfiction
2004
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Cultural Politics of Emotion, Sara Ahmed argues that emotions are socially constructed, relational, and shaped by cultural norms. She examines how emotions contribute to identity and societal perceptions, particularly regarding marginalized groups like women, ethnic minorities, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The text links emotions with power structures and discusses their influence on social practices and individual bodies. The book addresses bigotry and violence against marginalized groups.
Informative
Emotional
Contemplative
Challenging
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
1,157 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sara Ahmed’s The Cultural Politics of Emotion is praised for its insightful exploration of how emotions shape social and cultural dynamics. Reviewers commend its interdisciplinary approach and clarity. Some critique its dense academic style and complex language, suggesting it may not be accessible to all readers. Overall, it is deemed a valuable text for understanding the interplay between emotion and politics.
Who Should Read The Cultural Politics of Emotion?
Readers fascinated by intersectionality, feminist theory, and emotion studies will appreciate The Cultural Politics of Emotion by Sara Ahmed. Those who engage with works like Judith Butler's Gender Trouble or bell hooks' Talking Back will find Ahmed’s exploration of how emotions shape social and cultural landscapes particularly compelling.
1,157 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Judith Butler
Judith Butler
An American gender studies scholar whose work on the social construction of gender and sex serves as a foundational influence for Ahmed. Ahmed frequently refers to Butler's theories in her analyses.
Frantz Fanon
Frantz Fanon
An Afro-Caribbean philosopher and psychiatrist whose ideas on oppression and identity are cited by Ahmed in her exploration of fear. Fanon's concepts, such as the white gaze, underpin parts of Ahmed's arguments.
Audre Lorde
Audre Lorde
A queer Black feminist whose intersectional perspective significantly influences Ahmed's work. Ahmed analyzes Lorde's ideas and anecdotes in discussions of hate, shame, and Black feminism.
232
Book • Nonfiction
2004
Adult
18+ years
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