The Role of Emotions in Austrian Neutrality and Current Austrian Foreign Policy

Lisa Hauthaler

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The present Maters thesis explores the emotional association of Austrian citizens with the country's policy of neutrality. This study employs a constructivist approach and uses a critical discourse analysis of nine interviews with a non-probability sample to explore emotions. The results suggest that emotions such as disappointment, shame, gratitude, security, nostalgia, and pride are commonly associated with neutrality in Austria. The implications of these emotions on current Austrian foreign policy are discussed, with the study finding that emotions are likely to impact the process and outcome of decision-making in foreign policy. This study contributes to the existing literature on constructivism, neutrality, and emotions in international relations and provides a different perspective on understanding Austrian neutrality.

Abstract:

The present Maters thesis explores the emotional association of Austrian citizens with the country's policy of neutrality. This study employs a constructivist approach and uses a critical discourse analysis of nine interviews with a non-probability sample to explore emotions. The results suggest that emotions such as disappointment, shame, gratitude, security, nostalgia, and pride are commonly associated with neutrality in Austria. The implications of these emotions on current Austrian foreign policy are discussed, with the study finding that emotions are likely to impact the process and outcome of decision-making in foreign policy. This study contributes to the existing literature on constructivism, neutrality, and emotions in international relations and provides a different perspective on understanding Austrian neutrality.

Keywords

Emotions, Neutrality, Critical discourse analysis, Constructivism

Keywords

Critical discoursive analysis, Constructivism, Neutrality, Emotoins

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 9. 12. 2022

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 10. 1. 2023
• Supervisor: Jan Martin Rolenc
• Reader: Michaela Zemanová

Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze

Master programme:
International and Diplomatic Studies