Online research in philosophy

The offender who desires to restore or maintain a relationship after a conflict apologises to his or her victim. Not only an individual but also a group can make apology. Groups do it through their representatives who are recognised as such by both sides. Sometimes offenders acknowledge wrongdoing and express regret for it. At other times while apologising, they may also ask for forgiveness. Does apology without a request for forgiveness mean the same as apology with such a request? Are (...) there any cases where apology may be appropriate, but not a request for forgiveness? Do those who apologise without asking for forgiveness really not want to be forgiven? This article answers these questions by exploring the notion of apology and its relation to forgiveness. (shrink)

If the notion of a victim's forgiveness encounters scepticism in today's world, more so the notion of self-forgiveness by the offender. However, a failure to forgive oneself, when self-forgiveness is appropriate, may be detrimental to one's moral and psychological well-being. Self-forgiveness is called for when guilt, self-hatred and shame reach high levels. Further, a third party's assurance that the offence is forgivable may contribute considerably to the completion of the self-forgiveness process. This article explores the notion of forgiveness of self (...) and compares it with the notion of forgiveness of others. In addition, guilt and shame, right and wrong, repentance and dealing with the consequences of harmful actions are examined in the context of self-forgiveness. (shrink)