5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

The Body Traversing the Contexts of Anthropocentric Knowledge: Communication and Emotions in (In)Just Contemporary Society

Language: English

In the Anthropocene, a term denoting the current geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems, the relationship between the body, communication, and emotions takes on a pivotal role. Understanding this nexus requires an exploration of how bodies are not merely physical entities but also sites of social and cultural significance. The sociology of the body emphasizes that our corporeal existence (embodiment) shapes and is shaped by the social world. This perspective is crucial in discussing how bodies communicate emotions and justice within the framework of contemporary societal challenges.The body is particularly relevant in the context of the Anthropocene, where the collective emotional landscape is influenced by issues such as climate change, social justice, and existential anxiety. The body, in this sense, not only reacts to these external stimuli but also embodies the emotional weight of these challenges. As bodies experience the tangible impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events or pollution, they become sites of struggle and negotiation, demanding a re-evaluation of what justice means in a rapidly changing world. In this Session we want navigate the complexities of contemporary life, recognizing the embodied nature of communication and emotion will be essential in fostering a more inclusive and just society. In this context, we want underline that the call for justice extends beyond human concerns to encompass the intricate web of life that sustains us, urging a holistic understanding of our place within the Anthropocene.