Spite

March 1, 2021

The word "spite" often evokes negative emotions or behaviors. However, many acts of spite may ultimately be beneficial. McCarthy-Jones (clinical psychology and neuropsychology, Trinity Coll. Dublin) refutes the popular notion that most, if not all, acts of spite are socially unacceptable and that the urge to be spiteful should be overcome. Instead, he argues that human spiteful behavior might be not only beneficial, but also a major factor in the prolongment of mankind's existence, both individually and as a species. His well-researched argument includes analyses of the results of the 2016 United States presidential election, recent Palestinian / Israeli conflicts, and the behavior of religious zealots. VERDICT This work draws heavily upon current scholarly sources in the behavioral sciences and philosophy, and is soundly reasoned and well arranged. It will find a natural place in all major academic libraries, as well as in larger public library collections.--Steve Dixon, State Univ. of New York, Delhi

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March 15, 2021
Spiteful acts are those committed to hurt another person, and are often petty and done out of jealousy. The enigma of spiteful behavior lies in how it often results in harm that's two-sided. McCarthy-Jones (Can't You Hear Them?, 2017) probes the subject of spite in this fascinating study. An introductory example of spite involves the terrorist Baader-Meinhof gang in Germany: their attacks on German government and some members' suicides, which cast further suspicion on the right-wing German government. Spite has resulted in horrific actions, from suicides of jilted spouses to murder, yet spite can also function as an agent for change. A decision to strike back against an unfair or rigged system may have resulted in the Brexit referendum and the 2016 U.S. presidential election victory of Donald Trump. McCarthy-Jones' thoughts and research provide a compelling view of how we perceive spite, making this a book that could stimulate many conversations.

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