Science and Emotions

Abstract

Science can proceed only when emotions are excluded. This conventional view is widely held but false; indeed, practically meaningless. On the contrary: the issues must be: Which emotions?, and how do they specifically relate to the activities at hand? The chapter considers the changing fortunes of emotions in the discourse of science. In doing so it demonstrates that emotions can be seriously considered in the sociology of science, even though it is hardly ever acknowledged that they have been. By focussing on the role of emotions in core scientific processes, our understanding of science is broadened and our account of emotions enriched.