Affect and Belonging in Political Uses of the Past

Description

Affect and Belonging in Political Uses of the Past investigates the emotional and psychological dimensions of how political actors instrumentalize history to advance their agendas. David Farrell-Banks argues that understanding political engagement with the past requires attention to the affective experiences of belonging, identity, and community that historical narratives generate.

The book analyzes how shared emotional responses to historical events and interpretations create bonds between political actors and their audiences. Farrell-Banks demonstrates that the political power of historical narratives lies not only in their factual claims but in their capacity to evoke feelings of connection, legitimacy, and collective purpose.

Drawing on contemporary case studies and theoretical frameworks from affect theory, political psychology, and memory studies, this work provides critical insights into populism, nationalism, and identity politics. It is essential reading for scholars and students interested in the intersection of history, politics, emotion, and collective identity.