Shame is a powerful and often damaging emotion that is associated with psychological maladjustment. It arises when people do not live up to group ideals and it serves as a mechanism to enforce social norms. Despite these concerns, is it possible that shame could be used to engender social change? For example, what role could shaming efforts play in reigning in corporate self-interest to encourage practices that benefit the collective good, such as becoming more sustainable, adopting family friendly corporate policies, or changing discriminatory hiring practices?
In this Green College Leading Scholar’s thematic session, we will explore these themes in an interactive discussion format. Dr. Catherine Corrigall-Brown, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Dr. Michael Daniels, Assistant Professor of Business, will present an interdisciplinary view of shaming and other mechanisms of social pressure as a potential tool for social change, drawing from their expertise in social movements and emotions in organizations respectively. This will be followed by a moderated conversation with Dr. Michael Rattray, senior editor at Adbusters magazine, and Coro Strandberg, a corporate sustainability consultant. The session will end with a group discussion between the panel and audience, followed by a wine and cheese reception.
Attendees are encouraged to fill out discussion cards with questions, thoughts, or experiences on the theme. These contributions will form the basis of a thought-provoking installation later in the year that will combine the insights gained through the four thematic sessions organized by the Green College Leading Scholars Series.