Passions and Society: Do we need a new Galateo?

Abstract

In this paper I will try to define a possible way to respond to the increase of violent passions and violent reactions in our societies. It might well work in everyday life, but perhaps mostly at a political level. In the first part, the focus will be devoted to the idea (and practice) of Galateo, that is kindness or politeness. We will later wonder if and how a new Galateo (etiquette) could be an effective tool for social action, in view of overcoming the current violence of language and political passions.

Keywords

• castiglione
• emotion
• gioia
• respect
• civility
• della casa
• ethics
• fear
• manners
• passion
• politeness
• rationality
• reason