Course Description

One popular view of anger says that it is counterproductive: we are more likely to communicate persuasively if we avoid feeling or expressing anger, and less likely to act destructively in pursuit of revenge against the target of our anger. If we take this view seriously, we may moderate or extinguish our anger, perhaps in the ways suggested by the stoic philosopher Seneca. But is it fair for others to ask us to give up our anger? And what do we risk losing when we do? In this presentation, we will explore recent arguments from philosophers that people who are wronged have a right to their anger, and that anger is useful in pursuing justice for oneself (and not necessarily revenge). Gubka will present his research arguing that our understanding of ourselves, including what is valuable to us, depends on our anger. One surprising and provocative upshot of this research is that we have a reason to promote anger in ourselves and others rather than to reduce or moderate that anger. Handouts and a Powerpoint will enhance this presentation. Space is limited.