Emotion Quote by Leslie Jamison
“Shame doesn't exist as an emotion without the projected or perceived sense of judgment coming from somewhere else.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Being by Leslie Jamison, 2015
Shame arises only when we sense judgment from others; without that external lens, it lacks emotional substance.
In simple terms: Shame needs external judgment to exist.
Seek internal validation over external judgment.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- social media use
- public speaking
- interpersonal conflict
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish shame from healthy self‑critique?
- What role does empathy play in reducing shame?
Self‑imposed shame can persist without external judgment.