ABSTRACT
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2705-8459" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2705-8459
Chapter 3 sketches the evolution of emotions in Western society, so as to connect the macro-trend of historical processes to the development of individualism as a specifically modern conception of men. The historical perspective is integrated by making reference to sociological theory, notably Elias’ theory of the civilizing process, which represents the most appropriate link between the historical and the sociological perspectives in the analysis of emotions. The relations between emotions, social chance and power are analyzed by making reference to William Reddy’s analysis. A section is about the connection between emotions, modernity and consumerism. The final section is a synoptic overview of historical trends in Western society.
