For Shame: Rediscovering the Virtues of a Maligned Emotion

Can a better understanding of shame lead us to see its positive contribution to human life?

For many people, shame really is a destructive and health-disrupting force. Too often it cripples and silences victims of other people's shameful behavior, and research has demonstrated clearly the damaging effects of shame on our emotional wellbeing. To combat this, a mini-industry of resources and popular therapies has emerged to help people free themselves from shame.

And yet, shame can contribute t...