Moral philosophy is a branch of ethics that deals with how individuals should behave in certain situations. It includes questions about morality, values, and principles. Moral philosophers often debate whether something is right or wrong, good or bad, just or unjust. They also consider how people should act according to their beliefs. In this article, I will explore the concept of "emotional labor" through the lens of moral philosophy. Emotional labor refers to the work required to manage one's emotions and express them appropriately.
When you smile at someone who has hurt your feelings, you are engaging in emotional labor. When you try to hide your annoyance at a colleague who keeps talking too much during a meeting, you are also engaging in emotional labor. The term "emotional labor" was coined by sociologist Arlie Russell Hochschild in her book The Managed Heart. She argued that emotional labor was an essential part of many service jobs such as waitressing or nursing because employees must create specific emotional states for customers/patients.
Hochschild did not address the emotional labor involved in constantly explaining one's existence to others. To explain something means to make it clear or understandable. Explanations involve clarifying ideas, concepts, or procedures. People who identify as queer, transgender, disabled, or non-binary face daily explanations about their identities and experiences. This can be emotionally taxing because they must navigate complex social dynamics while remaining true to themselves. As a result, some people may develop strategies to avoid explaining themselves (e.g., using gender-neutral pronouns). But these strategies can lead to misunderstanding and isolation.
So what does moral philosophy have to say about this? Moral philosophers have long debated whether individuals should prioritize themselves or society. Some believe that we should always put ourselves first and protect our own interests. Others argue that we should consider the needs of others before our own. In terms of emotional labor, this could mean deciding how much time and energy to spend on explaining oneself versus focusing on other things. It could also mean determining when to share personal information with strangers versus keeping it private.
If someone asks you why you are single at age 35, do you feel obligated to answer honestly even though it might hurt your feelings? Or do you choose not to answer so you don't have to deal with potential judgment from them?
There is no easy solution to the problem of emotional labor. Each person must decide for themselves how to manage their emotions and express them appropriately.
Moral philosophy provides useful tools for thinking through difficult ethical dilemmas like this one. By examining individual choices in light of broader principles and values, we can make more informed decisions that reflect who we want to be as people.
How does moral philosophy interpret the emotional labor of constantly explaining one's existence to others?
Moral philosophy interprets the emotional labor of constantly explaining one's existence to others as an act of self-expression and communication that can potentially lead to positive outcomes if done effectively. By sharing their life story with others, individuals have the opportunity to create a meaningful connection and establish trust, which can contribute to personal growth and development.