ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the notion of “political atmosphere”; asking what is an atmosphere and, in particular, what makes an atmosphere a political atmosphere. The chapter considers two characteristics of political atmosphere: (i) that atmospheres can be created; and (ii) that atmospheres influence those who experience them. These characteristics are of acute concern in the context of political atmospheres, as they highlight that political atmospheres don't simply occur “organically” but can be deliberately designed. As such, an examination of political atmospheres involves confronting questions of appropriateness, responsibility, and power. The first section outlines a general account of “atmosphere.” This account emphasises that atmosphere is not a thing in the world but a way of experiencing the world and typically a way of experiencing social reality or the world together with others. The second section moves from a general account of atmosphere to a specific account of political atmosphere. The chapter examines the ways in which political atmospheres relate to political emotions and moods. Moreover, special attention is given to how political atmospheres have a distinctive relationship to normativity and responsibility. The chapter concludes by elaborating on the normative dimension of political atmospheres.
