Boys Do Cry: Adam Smith on Wealth and Expressing Emotions. Issue 1 (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Paganelli, Maria Pia
• Is Part Of: Journal of Scottish philosophy. Volume 15:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 8
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: Adam Smith -- expression of emotion -- crying -- stoicism -- commercial societies -- distress -- poverty; Philosophy, Scottish -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 192
• DOI: 10.3366/jsp.2017.0148
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1479-6651

Abstract

Abstract : Recent studies on crying show that crying is more common in happier, freer, and richer countries than in poorer and less free countries. These results can sound counterintuitive and contradict the hypothesis that crying is more observable in countries where people experience more distress. Adam Smith may offer an explanation: In the severe hardship of poverty, showing emotion and distress can be read as a sign of weakness, attracting no sympathy and compromising survival. As a result, emotional displays are avoided. Instead, wealthier commercial societies offer ease and tranquility which allows individuals to express their emotions with fewer negative consequences.