For Shame

by James B. Twitchell

Just a generation ago, outrageous Americans like Joey Buttafucco and O.J. Simpson would have been scorned. Talk-show host would gave been viewed with suspicion. Self-help books, the recovery movement, and grade inflation didn't exist.

Today, celebrity is its own reward, and every American has the right to an A and high self-esteem. Much to the joy of Madison Avenue ad agencies and the tabloid press, there is no stigma attached to bad behavior--as long as the perpetrator truly repent, of course. As all Americans have asked themselves at one point or another: What's wrong with this picture?

Now, James B. Twitchell, critically acclaimed author of Adcult and Carnival Culture , offers a fascinating and original look at shame, and shamlessness in American culture, taking to task everyone from conservative hypocrites to bleeding-heart liberals. Whether or not your agree that shame is building block of a healthy society, you'll find this a provocative and addictive read--and you just may decide to reexamine "the social good of feeling bad ."

256 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1997

About the author

James B. Twitchell is an American author and former professor of English, known for his work on advertising, consumer culture, and popular media. He earned his BA, MA, and PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. A tenured professor at the University of Florida, Twitchell resigned in 2008 following allegations of plagiarism. Despite this, he remains recognized for his engaging writing style and provocative insights into American cultural and consumer behavior.

Reviews

[Jim George · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really knocks in a home run, while identifying & zeroing in on the myriads of lost values and morals that put todays culture at risk. A fairly decent read.