A discussion of the ubiquitous experience of shame in *civilized* cultures and why it is sometimes appropriate to feel shamed.
Category: Social Behavior
Do You Want to Be a ‘Good’ Person?
What we consider “moral behavior” can be motivated by religious beliefs, an inherited set of values, empathy and enlightened self-interest. The appearance of extreme virtue may mask highly “immoral” and destructive feelings through the process of splitting and projection.
Can’t or Won’t?
Psychologically speaking, does everyone *always* do the best he or she can?
The Art of the Apology
A few guidelines, based on the author’s personal experience, for how to tender a genuine apology. This includes accepting full responsibility, along with possibly lasting guilt and regret.
Further Thoughts on the Lost Art of Conversation
Conversations with strangers in the context of a common interest, discussing a shared passion, can feel more intimate than another dinner out, listening to an old friend complain about her latest boyfriend.