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A doubtful hope: resource affect in a future oil economy

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  • Weszkalnys, Gisa

Abstract

In global debates about natural resource extraction, affect has played an increasingly prominent, if somewhat nameless, role. This paper proposes a theorization of resource affect both as an intrinsic element of capitalist dynamics and as an object problematized by corporate, government, and third‐sector practice. Drawing on ethnographic research in São Tomé and Príncipe (STP), I explore the affective horizons generated by the prospect of hydrocarbon exploration: a doubtful hope comprised of visions of material betterment, personal and collective transformation, as well as anticipations of failure, friction, and discontent. I also examine the multitude of oil‐related campaigns, activities, and programmes initiated by non‐governmental organizations and global governance institutions in STP, animated by the specific conundrums presented by oil's futurity. In light of this, I argue that what we see emerging is a new resource politics that revolves around not simply the democratic and technical aspects of resource exploitation but increasingly their associated affective dissonances and inconsistencies.

Suggested Citation

  • Weszkalnys, Gisa, 2016. "A doubtful hope: resource affect in a future oil economy," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 64684, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:64684
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    File URL: https://researchonline.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/64684/
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    1. Yeboah Asuamah Samuel & Kumi Ernest & Kwarteng Ernest, 2012. "Empirical Assessment of Expectations Associated with the Recent Discovery of Commercialisable Oil in Ghana," International Review of Management and Marketing, International Review of Management and Marketing, vol. 2(3), pages 177-191.
    2. repec:wbk:wbpubs:15930 is not listed on IDEAS
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      JEL classification:

      • N0 - Economic History - - General

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