Single Idea 2178

[catalogued under 22. Metaethics / A. Ethics Foundations / 1. Nature of Ethics / g. Moral responsibility]

Full Idea

In what I have done, the guilt points in one direction towards what has happened to others, and the shame in another direction to what I am.

Gist of Idea

In bad actions, guilt points towards victims, and shame to the agent

Source

Bernard Williams (Shame and Necessity [1993], IV - p.92)

Book Reference

Williams,Bernard: 'Shame and Necessity' [California 1994], p.92


A Reaction

Not convinced. I think shame has the fear of being observed as an inescapable component. Even when alone shame involves imagining what others might think.