Study of Emotions and Affect

In recent decades, various disciplines have turned their attention to emotions and affects; however, the definitions and methodologies used to study them remain disputed. In diverse cultures, languages, and media, emotions are formulated, contemplated, and conveyed distinctively. Socially acceptable public expression of emotions evolves historically within specific cultural contexts. Affect, as the central focus of the "affect turn," has generated extensive discussions that warrant reconceptualization in various contexts.

Given the scale and complexity of this field, we believe that a collaborative effort, drawing from numerous departments at the University of Washington, is the best way for us to examine existing scholarly literature and more effectively articulate our own contributions to the field. Our goal is to create a space for guidance and dialogue, allowing graduate researchers to bring together their various disciplines and approaches to this field, and fostering a pluralistic understanding of emotional studies. For the next year, our thematic objectives will focus on exploring the themes of emotion and capitalism, solitude and loneliness, affective ecologies, as well as affect and race, racism, and racial liberation.