Forgiveness and revenge

by Trudy Govier

"Forgiveness and Revenge is a timely and powerful exploration of our attitudes to serious wrongdoings and a careful examination of the values that underlie our thinking about revenge and forgiveness." "From adulterous spouses to terrorist factions, we are surrounded by wrongdoing ... yet we rarely agree which response is appropriate. The problem of how to respond realistically and sensitively to the wrongs of the past remains a perplexing one. Trudy Govier aims to clear up some of our thinking on this subject by examining the moral and practical impact of revenge and forgiveness, both personal and political." "Govier argues that revenge is objectionable for practical and moral reasons. She explores the relationship between revenge and retribution, and the distinction between vindictiveness and a desire for vindication. Crucially, Govier poses the question: Are some crimes unforgivable? She argues that forgiving does not require condoning, excusing or forgetting, using the political for