Perspectives on Gratitude

With contributions from experts in the field, chapters in this volume explore the received usage of gratitude. With discussions about distinctions between triadic (benefactored) and dyadic (or non-benefactored) gratitude; between gratitude as obligation and gratitude as a virtue; and between gratitude to people and gratitude to or for things, the volume also raises interesting questions about whether it is proper to feel grateful to those who have acted to one’s benefit only from a sense of duty, and whether it makes sense to feel gratitude to those who have actually harmed one. On the other hand, consideration is also given to the personal psychological benefits of grateful attitudes and sentiments, as well as the positive social effects of public acts and expressions of gratitude. The spiritual dimension of gratitude is also considered within the volume.