Obviously this isn't a comment but for some reason its not letting me create my own post.
The source of shame from infancy that is provided in this chapter seems remarkably flawed to me. Shame is effectively said to originate from our helplessness as infants. The fact that we have to rely on others for things. That we are weak in some way. We are therefore ashamed as adults of things that display our weaknesses.
First of I don't think all shame relates to weaknesses. Especially when it comes to regret and somethings which we shouldn't actually be ashamed of. We are often ashamed of things we regret. For instance I am ashamed that I didn't spend more time with my late grandmother. There is no weakness displayed on my part for wishing I had spent more time with her. One could argue that what I am feeling is more guilt than shame and yes I do also feel guilty but I am ashamed and want to hide this feeling from my family even though I know I have no reason to.
This account also relies on animals not being helpless at birth as accounting for why they don't feel shame. Many animals are however helpless at birth. Sure unlike humans they can walk but few can provide for themselves. Most still rely on the mother at least for a time. One can still argue I suppose that they are less aware of their vulnerability and are vulnerable for less time.
Obviously this isn't a comment but for some reason its not letting me create my own post.
ReplyDeleteThe source of shame from infancy that is provided in this chapter seems remarkably flawed to me. Shame is effectively said to originate from our helplessness as infants. The fact that we have to rely on others for things. That we are weak in some way. We are therefore ashamed as adults of things that display our weaknesses.
First of I don't think all shame relates to weaknesses. Especially when it comes to regret and somethings which we shouldn't actually be ashamed of. We are often ashamed of things we regret. For instance I am ashamed that I didn't spend more time with my late grandmother. There is no weakness displayed on my part for wishing I had spent more time with her. One could argue that what I am feeling is more guilt than shame and yes I do also feel guilty but I am ashamed and want to hide this feeling from my family even though I know I have no reason to.
This account also relies on animals not being helpless at birth as accounting for why they don't feel shame. Many animals are however helpless at birth. Sure unlike humans they can walk but few can provide for themselves. Most still rely on the mother at least for a time. One can still argue I suppose that they are less aware of their vulnerability and are vulnerable for less time.