Anxiety as a defining emotional characteristic of modern Western history
In short: A sociological review explores how anxiety has become a defining emotional state in the history of modern Europe and the Global North. By examining social theories regarding 'risk society' and the role of expert knowledge, the analysis investigates how this persistent state of anxiety relates to trust in science during global emergencies like the Covid-19 pandemic.
The research examines whether anxiety is a structural legacy of Western modernity, looking at how the need for certainty in an unpredictable world shapes our relationship with scientific expertise. It uses a theoretical framework to connect historical emotional patterns to contemporary responses to the Covid-19 outbreak.
The study is a theoretical and qualitative review of social theory rather than an empirical study of a specific population. As a result, it provides a conceptual analysis of cultural characteristics rather than new statistical data.
Why it matters: Anxiety may be understood not just as a personal feeling, but as a historical and structural feature of Western modern society.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Source: Research: Rebughini (2021). A sociology of anxiety: Western modern legacy and the Covid-19 outbreak. International Sociology. · cc-by
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-research-modern-western-history-is-defined-by-an-enduring-state-of-co.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
