Reasonable Self-Esteem

Robert B. MacIntyre is head of the Centre for Relationship Therapy and
Education in Orangeville, Ontario.

In a book that stands in striking contrast to “pop psychology” books
on self-esteem, a philosopher explores self-esteem from the position of
the “reasonable person.” In Keshen’s view, self-esteem that
derives from such external factors as opinions of others, social
condition, comparisons with others, or inherited traits is easily shaken
by negative events and changes in one’s life. Using rigorous analysis
to develop his argument, he espouses a self-esteem that is grounded in
individual achievement. Reasonable Self-Esteem will be of particular
interest to those with a background in moral philosophy and
philosophical argument.