Blame infuses society in myriad ways. At its worst it sours and destabilizes relationships: it divides lovers, co-workers, communities and nations. It breeds rancour and the desire for revenge. In the hands of skilled propagandists blame is a potent tool for persecution; in the hands of the media it is a vehicle for creating victims and social unease. Yet blame, appropriately placed and managed, safeguards moral order and legal culpability. Blame is thus a curious construction, destructive on the one hand, necessary on the other. The Blame Business is a fascinating journey through the landscape of blame, deepening our understanding of blame and how it shapes our lives. This book examines the roots of blame and its enduring manifestations today, from ancient witch-hunts to modern corporate whistleblowers.
