selfrighteousness

Self-righteousness is the stance or belief that one’s own moral judgments are superior to those of others, often accompanied by condescension, moralizing, or an imperative to police others’ behavior. It is typically framed as certainty about right and wrong and a readiness to condemn or ostracize those who do not share the same standards. The term is usually used pejoratively to describe attitudes that combine strong moral positions with a lack of humility or openness to alternative viewpoints.

Etymology and usage

The word combines self, meaning oneself, with righteousness, referring to moral correctness. In English, the term has been used across religious and secular contexts to critique those who treat personal moral standards as universally applicable and infallible.

Psychological and social dimensions

Self-righteousness can arise from identity-based morality, where moral beliefs are tied to group membership and self-esteem. It often relies on cognitive biases such as overconfidence, selective perception, and dichotomous thinking. Social dynamics include in-group signaling, status competition, and the policing of norms, which can reinforce polarization and reduce willingness to engage productively with dissenting viewpoints.

Consequences and examples

In discourse, self-righteous attitudes can alienate others, hinder dialogue, and escalate conflicts. They appear in debates over politics, religion, ethics, or lifestyle choices, including issues like vaccination, dietary choices, or social norms. While some moral positions are legitimate and important, self-righteous rhetoric can obscure nuance and undermine constructive reform.

Criticism and nuance

Scholars note that moral conviction is not inherently harmful; problems arise when it becomes dismissive, absolutist, or hypocritical. Distinguishing principled commitment from self-righteous posturing involves assessing humility, openness to evidence, and willingness to engage with opposing views. Related concepts include moral grandstanding, virtue signaling, and hypocrisy.