Resentment, Empathy and Indignation

Abstract

The paper offers an account of justified resentment and its importance in preserving human dignity.  I situate the argument in the context of Martha Nussbaum's recent work against anger and resentment.  Drawing on Enlightenment thinkers, I show the importance of resentment in deterring injury, in creating greater solidarity and humanity, and in preserving human dignity.  The paper also offers a preliminary analysis of the norms that help to ensure appropriately expressed resentment.