A Moral Algorithm. Toward a Neuropsychological Model of Shame

Shame has been usually regarded as a “negative” emotion because, clinically, abnormal perception and regulation of shame may be associated with several mental disorders. Also, shame-inducing situations may trigger unpleasant responses. Building on these observations, shame has been considered a potentially problematic emotion. However, in recent times the positive role of shame in guiding behaviour and promoting social contacts has been reconsidered. Shame can help us align with moral standards and to adhere to social norms. We believe this is the adaptive role of shame. We start the chapter by introducing the class of moral emotions that includes shame. Then we define shame from a psychological perspective and compares it with guilt. We then introduce psychological theories of shame to deepen the understanding of its role and function. Subsequently, we briefly report the results of recent neuroscientific research which describes the neural bases involved in the perception of shame. Lastly, we introduce a model of shame as a moral algorithm the brain uses to adjust the self. In doing so, we aim to highlight both the adaptive and maladaptive functions of shame and to suggest an integrated model of normal and abnormal functioning of shame and its consequences.