“The fabric of society is woven with emotional threads, from empathy to outrage, and it is these feelings that shape both harmony and conflict in the world.” — Dalai Lama

"Emotion ecosystems" refers to the complex, interconnected emotional interactions that emerge within collectives—whether in communities, institutions, or digital environments. These ecosystems continuously evolve in response to technological innovation, political shifts, and cultural transformations.

Why this matters now?
The deepening integration of artificial intelligence, affective computing, and digital platforms into daily life is radically transforming the landscape of emotional experience. Social media now acts not only as a mirror of collective sentiment but also as a regulatory force, selectively amplifying or silencing emotions through algorithmic curation. These mechanisms influence which feelings are publicly expressed, socially reinforced, or left unseen.

Emerging technologies such as brain–computer interfaces further complicate the emotional terrain, raising pressing questions around emotional autonomy, authenticity, and consent. As the boundaries between inner states and external interventions blur, we are entering a new phase in the relationship between human affect and technological mediation.

At the same time, scientific advances in neuroscience, psychology, and embodied cognition are deepening our insight into the biological and perceptual foundations of emotion. From the role of the gut-brain axis in mood regulation to the malleability of perception and the influence of contemplative practices, we are beginning to grasp the full extent to which emotion is constructed, conditioned, and context-dependent.

Amid these rapid shifts, profound questions are coming into focus:

💡How do evolving emotion ecosystems shape our relationships—with ourselves, with others, and with the systems we inhabit?

💡What new forms of awareness, interconnection, and collective sense-making are emerging?

💡How might the emotional landscapes of tomorrow affect the evolution of consciousness, identity, and social cohesion?

About the Workshop
Emotion Ecosystems 2040 is a foresight workshop that seeks to map, anticipate, and co-shape the future of emotional dynamics in Europe. Through structured foresight methods and multidisciplinary dialogue, participants will:

🎯Identify key drivers of change for the emotion ecosystems, analyzing trends, disruptions, and critical uncertainties

🎯Explore societal, ethical, and philosophical implications

🎯Co-develop Delphi-style future statements to inform broader strategic conversations. 

Participants & Expertise Areas
The workshop will bring together approximately 40 experts from diverse fields, including:

• Social psychology & neuroscience 
• Affective computing & brain-machine interfaces 
• Anthropology & political science
• Media & communication studies
• Art & creative industries
• Spiritual and contemplative communities
  

By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, this workshop aims to advance scientific debate, inspire new research directions, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving emotional fabric of society.

The event will be held at Mercure Conacul Cozieni, approximately 20 km from the center of Bucharest, Romania.