This chapter delves into the complex emotions of shame and guilt, discussing their roles as mechanisms to prevent and punish wrongdoing. The podcast also examines the societal impact of shame, drawing on real-life examples of individuals facing shame for acts of dishonesty and plagiarism.
Shame is a painful feeling of humiliation caused by bad or foolish behaviour and can affect our mental health. This is seen particularly in the rise of anxiety and of self-harm. But public shame - especially in our digital age - can be a strong tool to regulate our social behaviour.