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Gratefulness, resentfulness, and some modern slogans

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  • Daniel B Klein

Abstract

Scholars distinguish between gratitude and gratefulness. Both sentiments involve an appreciation of the benefits that one enjoys. Gratitude, however, also involves a positive feeling directed to the benefactor. Gratefulness does not necessarily involve any benefactor, much less a feeling towards one (‘I am grateful for the warm sunshine’). I suggest a parallel distinction between resentment and resentfulness. I suggest that in the primeval band resentfulness would be provoked by inequality and by non‐inclusiveness, and give rise to proper resentment. But we are not in the band any more. Now, resentfulness is bad, only it should be deemed an atavism. Gratefulness is, rather, a virtue, and should be encouraged. This article suggests that the propagandistic power of the modern slogans of ‘inclusiveness’ and ‘equity’ is atavistic.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniel B Klein, 2022. "Gratefulness, resentfulness, and some modern slogans," Economic Affairs, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 42(1), pages 135-143, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecaffa:v:42:y:2022:i:1:p:135-143
    DOI: 10.1111/ecaf.12510
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Smith, Adam, 1759. "The Theory of Moral Sentiments," History of Economic Thought Books, McMaster University Archive for the History of Economic Thought, number smith1759.
    2. Reuben D. Rusk & Dianne A. Vella-Brodrick & Lea Waters, 2016. "Gratitude or Gratefulness? A Conceptual Review and Proposal of the System of Appreciative Functioning," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 17(5), pages 2191-2212, October.
    3. Smith, Adam, 1776. "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations," History of Economic Thought Books, McMaster University Archive for the History of Economic Thought, number smith1776.
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