A Geographical Conceptual Framework: Space, Emotion, and Feeling

Abstract

This academic article emerged from the observation that situations, phenomena, and problems occurring in society all involve emotions. Emotions are therefore as significant as reason. This study asks whether understanding emotions in their social dimensions—differently from traditional scientific approaches—could expand the boundaries of knowledge. For this reason, the author, who has a strong interest in geography, presents concepts in human geography proposed by Doreen Massey, Nigel Thrift, and Yi-Fu Tuan as a framework for explaining emotions in social dimensions. This conceptual framework does not view emotions as arising in isolation; rather, it understands emotions as intricately connected with space through complex relational processes. The author synthesizes these conceptual frameworks and constructs an analytical model of emotions and feelings grounded in geographical thinking. This model is intended as a qualitative tool for analyzing human–space interactions in emotional and affective dimensions. This is divided into six stages: 1) Point of Transformation - the stage where spatial changes begin to stimulate emotions; 2) Emotional Genesis - the stage where emotions arise in response to spatial changes; 3) Shared Emotions - the stage where emotional reactions spread and shape the atmosphere of spaces; 4) Feeling Formation - the stage where emotions are interpreted and consolidated into feelings through spatial experience; 5) Interpretive Meaning-Making - the stage of producing meanings in the relationship between individuals and space; and 6) Cyclical Transformation - the stage where emotions and feelings shape perceptions and contribute to subsequent spatial changes. This article does not aim to provide definitive conclusions; rather, it aims to open new avenues for learning and to offer analytical lenses for understanding diverse and deeper social phenomena.