Abstract

This chapter ponders the value of a focused conceptual examination of hatred for the combating of hate. A common argument found in much scholarship on hate crime and hate speech is that the term “hate” is misleading, and that bias or prejudice does a better job. However, this assertion is generally based on scanty consideration as to the concept of hatred itself. In order to qualify the conversation about hatred today, the chapter returns to Plato’s conceptualization of misology in the Phaedo and Aristotle’s account of hatred in the Rhetoric. This exploration among other things shows that there is a long tradition for thinking about certain forms of hatred as prejudice, but also that hatred can be approached as a reasonable and reason responsive feeling, rather than simply irrational and bad. The chapter mobilizes these philosophical readings for the purpose of reconsidering the question whether “hate” is indeed a misnomer.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHate, Politics, Law : Critical Perspectives on Combating Hate
PublisherOxford University Press
Publication date1 Jan 2018
Chapter3
ISBN (Print) 9780190465544
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018
SeriesStudies in Penal Theory and Philosophy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Hatred Beyond Bigotry'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this