Asking Quote by Jonathan Haidt
“Scandal is great entertainment because it allows people to feel contempt, a moral emotion that gives feeling of moral superiority while asking nothing in return.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Righteous Mind, 2012
Scandals entertain by letting people feel contempt, granting a sense of moral superiority without cost.
In simple terms: Scandals give cheap moral superiority feelings.
Key Takeaway
Beware of deriving pleasure from others’ missteps.
Themes
psychology
media
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
psychological
media
When to use this quote
- media criticism
- ethical education
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
contempt
moral superiority
entertainment
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we enjoy scandal?
- How can we foster healthier moral emotions?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify complex moral emotions.
