Humility
Author(s)
Bibliographic Information
Humility
Temple University Press, 1992
- :hard
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Note
Includes bibliographical references
Description and Table of Contents
Description
Although considered one of the virtues, humility seems to be generally regarded as more pitiable than admirable. It is often confused with false modesty, a lack of self-respect, or the underestimation of one's accomplishments. In the first extended treatment of humility in modern times, Norvin Richards examines this puzzling virtue, redeems it from common misconceptions, and discusses the effect humility can have on one's life. The author argues that true humility consists in understanding yourself and what you have done too clearly to be inclined to exaggeration. To be humble means taking oneself no more seriously than one should and not having unreasonable beliefs about one's moral entitlements. It also means knowing what kind of treatment to give to and expect from others. This ability to maintain a proper perspective is clearly a desirable characteristic. With lively and familiar examples, Richards explores the ways humility can protect us from a variety of mistakes. He considers the relationship between humility and forgiveness, envy and jealousy, and paternalism.
He asks what it requires in terms of compassion, ambition, and the simplicity or opulence of life and he relates the virtue of humility to our culture of arrogance, elitism, and blind ambition. Author note: Norvin Richards is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments Introduction 1. Is Humility a Virtue? 2. Mistreatment 3. Compassion 4. Envy and Jealousy 5. Paternalism and Arrogance 6. "It's My Life!" 7. The Simple Life 8. The Virtue of Humility Notes Index
by "Nielsen BookData"
