Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Master of Arts
Major
Philosophy
Date of Defense
4-19-2022
Graduate Advisor
Eric Wiland
Committee
Eric Wiland
Gualtiero Piccinini
David Griesedieck
Abstract
My main aim is to define assertiveness, to distinguish assertiveness from aggressiveness, and to raise the question of whether we should be assertive. Most articles on assertiveness are from the field of psychology. In psychology, assertiveness is defined as a healthy way of expressing oneself. But what does assertiveness mean? How should we define assertiveness and is assertiveness desirable, or is it closely connected to aggressiveness? Should we say that assertiveness is a part of our character, an innate quality, or an acquired skill? In this thesis, I will define assertiveness and show how to distinguish assertiveness from aggressiveness. Most issues arise due to the close linkage between these two terms, but assertiveness is different from aggressiveness. Since this topic is rarely explored, I approach it from the angle of continental philosophy and look at what assertiveness means in the philosophy of language, psychology, literature, and mythology. I conclude that even though assertiveness could be a very complex term and difficult to define, it is distinct from aggressiveness. There are three important factors connected to assertiveness: freedom, courage, and respect. The wish for freedom and courage are necessary for each person to acquire assertiveness. Respect is required in social interaction and it is essential in distinguishing assertiveness and aggressiveness.
Recommended Citation
Trifunovic, Mirjana, "What is Assertiveness?" (2022). Theses. 397.
https://irl.umsl.edu/thesis/397
Included in
Applied Ethics Commons, Continental Philosophy Commons, Ethics and Political Philosophy Commons, Philosophy of Language Commons