The Moral Psychology of Boredom

Boredom is a significant part of human life, influencing our personal, social, practical, and moral existence. The Moral Psychology of Boredom explores its relationship to morality, asking if it causes immoral acts, affects moral judgment, or makes us worse people. It suggests that boredom can be a solution and a positive moral force.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Boredom, an inescapable aspect of human existence, permeates every facet of our personal, social, practical, and moral lives. It shapes our world by distinguishing between what captivates, intrigues, or holds significance and what lacks such qualities. Moreover, boredom serves as a catalyst, igniting a multitude of actions and motivations within us. As we embark on the quest for engagement, interest, or meaning, our responses to boredom straddle the line between virtuous and harmful, beneficial and detrimental, creative and mundane.

In this comprehensive volume, esteemed researchers unite to delve into a neglected yet profoundly significant dimension of boredom: its relationship to morality. Does boredom lead individuals to engage in immoral acts? Does it influence our moral judgment? Does the frequent or chronic experience of boredom make us inferior beings? Should we strive to avoid boredom at all costs? Or can boredom, in certain instances, serve as a solution and a positive moral force?

The Moral Psychology of Boredom aims to provide answers to these and other pressing inquiries. By exploring the intricate interplay between boredom and moral behavior, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of human cognition, emotion, and decision-making. It sheds light on the ways in which boredom can prompt us to reflect, introspect, and cultivate virtuous qualities such as empathy, creativity, and self-improvement.

Furthermore, the book explores the potential benefits of boredom, such as increased productivity, improved problem-solving skills, and enhanced creativity. It challenges the notion that boredom is solely a negative experience and suggests that it can be harnessed as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, The Moral Psychology of Boredom combines insights from psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, and other fields to provide a comprehensive understanding of boredom's moral implications. It offers practical strategies for managing boredom, such as engaging in meaningful activities, cultivating new interests, and seeking social interaction.

In conclusion, boredom is a fundamental aspect of human life that cannot be ignored or overlooked. By exploring its relationship to morality, The Moral Psychology of Boredom provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of human behavior and well-being. It encourages us to embrace boredom as an opportunity for growth, introspection, and moral development rather than a source of frustration or despair. As we navigate the complexities of our lives, this book offers practical insights and strategies for harnessing the positive aspects of boredom and cultivating a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 230 x 153 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538163573