The second wave positive psychology of shame in East and West in the age of the 4IR

ABSTRACT

This chapter highlights the importance of shame in the context of the 4IR, especially with respect to the threat of COVID-19. We pointed out the danger of shame-related cover-up, which may lead to more pandemics. We also emphasized the need for the framework of second wave positive psychology (PP 2.0) which embraces (1) the existential-spiritual perspective of transforming shame into personal growth and (2) the need to understand cultural difference between East and West in the experience and regulation of shame. In the age of COVID-19, the world suffered tragic losses of lives because of cover-ups and misinformation. Therefore, we propose that a sense of shame for violating the moral norm of speaking the truth and truthful international communications would be beneficial to humanity. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)