Shame, as an emotion, has a core meaning, in relating individuals to wider social groups and norms -- real or imagined.

Peter N. Stearns
About This Quote

The core meaning of shame is connected to a feeling of being judged by others. The judgment of others can be a source of shame, as well as a source of pride. Thus a person who is ashamed, or who feels shamed, is one who feels judged by others.

Source: Shame: A Brief History

Some Similar Quotes
  1. We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness and affection. Love is not something we give or get; it... - Unknown

  2. Abuse manipulates and twists a child’s natural sense of trust and love. Her innocent feelings are belittled or mocked and she learns to ignore her feelings. She can’t afford to feel the full range of feelings in her body while she’s being abused–pain, outrage, hate,... - Unknown

  3. Soul, if you want to learn secrets, 
your heart must forget about shame
 and dignity. You are God's lover, 
yet you worry what people are saying. - Jalaluddin Rumi

  4. I want to drag knives over my skin, just to feel something other than shame, but I'm not even brave enough for that - Paula Hawkins

  5. The mistake ninety-nine percent of humanity made, as far as Fats could see, was being ashamed of what they were; lying about it, trying to be somebody else. - J.k. Rowling

More Quotes By Peter N. Stearns
  1. Shame, as an emotion, has a core meaning, in relating individuals to wider social groups and norms -- real or imagined.

  2. Guilty people apologize and also take steps to avoid repetition. Shame, in contrast, is a more global emotion, which can emerge in response to the same kind of wrong act and violation of standards. It may develop earlier in life than guilt-- guilt requires more...

Related Topics