Episode #190 – Are emotions a waste of time? – Neo-Stoicism (Martha Nussbaum) | Philosophize This!

Intro

In this episode of “Philosophize This!”, host Stephen West explores the topic of emotions and their role in philosophy, particularly in the context of Neo-Stoicism. He is joined by renowned philosopher Martha Nussbaum, who provides valuable insights into the subject.

Main Takeaways

Stoicism and Emotions

• Stoicism has gained popularity as a means to manage emotions in a world of emotional manipulation.
• Stoicism teaches that one can only control their reactions to external events.
• Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Areilius are prominent figures in Stoicism.
• At the core of Stoicism is the idea that we can be in control of our emotions through reasoning.

The Nature of Emotions

• Emotions are appraisals of external objects as important for our needs and well-being.
• Stoicism views emotions with skepticism, emphasizing reason as the wise person’s guide.
• Emotions are geological upheavals of thought infused with judgments about value and importance.
• Emotions are necessary for advanced moral thinking and are important cognitive judgments.

Compassion and Shame

• Compassion, defined as a painful emotion in response to another’s undeserved misfortune, can expand moral horizons.
• Shame motivates self-improvement, while guilt can lead to self-punishment.
• Shame focuses on self-image, while guilt acknowledges harm caused to others.

Emotions in Society and Justice

• Emotions provide valuable information, even for Stoics.
• Martha Nussbaum proposes a capabilities approach to justice that includes emotional capabilities.
• Society should be structured to give people the capability to develop emotional and other capabilities.

Summary

Stoicism and Emotions

Stoicism has gained popularity in recent years as a philosophy that helps individuals manage their emotions in a world filled with emotional manipulation. According to Stoicism, individuals can only control their reactions to external events, rather than the events themselves. Prominent Stoic figures such as Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Areilius have emphasized the importance of reason in guiding one’s emotions.

The Nature of Emotions

Stoicism views emotions with skepticism, considering reason as the direction any wise person should take. Emotions are seen as geological upheavals of thought, infused with judgments about value and importance. While Stoicism emphasizes the need for rational thinking, it also recognizes the importance of emotions in advanced moral thinking and as cognitive judgments. However, Stoicism acknowledges that further work is needed in understanding emotional responses and personal history.

Compassion and Shame

Compassion, although not highly regarded by many philosophers throughout history, is seen by Martha Nussbaum as an emotion with significant value. It expands moral horizons and encourages individuals to care about those they may not know personally. On the other hand, shame and guilt play different roles in motivating behavior. Shame focuses on preserving one’s self-image and striving for perfection, while guilt acknowledges harm caused to others and seeks to make amends. Nussbaum argues that guilt is a better emotion for building a society where people consider each other’s rights and well-being.

Emotions in Society and Justice

Emotions, despite being viewed skeptically by Stoicism, can be a valuable source of information. Martha Nussbaum proposes a capabilities approach to justice, which includes emotional capabilities as an essential part of a flourishing life. Society should be structured in a way that allows individuals to develop emotional and other capabilities, taking into account differences in physical and mental abilities. By incorporating emotions into our understanding of justice, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society.

Conclusion

Emotions play a complex role in our lives, and understanding their nature and significance is crucial for personal and societal development. While Stoicism emphasizes the importance of reason, it also recognizes the value of emotions in moral thinking. Martha Nussbaum’s insights shed light on the role of compassion, shame, and guilt in shaping our behavior and building a just society. By embracing emotions and integrating them into our understanding of justice, we can strive for a more compassionate and empathetic world.