Affective Governmentality. Governing Through Disgust in Uganda (2016)

Michael Ashworth, Affective Governmentality. Governing Through Disgust in Uganda, Social & Legal Studies, September 23, 2016
doi: 10.1177/0964663916666630

Abstract
This article questions the extent to which calculable numbers are indispensable to the government of conduct. By focusing on the role played by disgust in the government of sexual minorities in Uganda, it provides an account of government by emotion, or affective governmentality. This article draws on the literature on disgust, appropriating elements from the various disciplines and perspectives and bringing them under a Foucauldian umbrella. It explores two techniques through which attempts were made to arouse disgust: the sermon and the tabloid exposé. Although such techniques were performed by agents who operated beyond the state, this article contends that the emergence of the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2014 cannot be accounted for without considering the role played by disgust.

Keywords
Affect Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2009 Anti-Homosexuality Act 2014 disgust Foucault LGBT sexual minorities techniques of government Uganda