Keshen presents a set of guidelines for analysing self-esteem and examines various factors that influence our self-esteem, such as other people's evaluations, comparisons with others, social relationships, and inherent qualities. He asserts that self-esteem not founded on individual achievement leads to a continual search for external supports and is easily shaken when such supports are not found. A key element of Keshen's argument is the idea of egalitarian respect, and he shows how we can integrate this idea into our lives. Reasonable Self-Esteem demonstrates the attraction of a life in which reasonableness is a central commitment. It will appeal to those with an interest in philosophy, ethics, and moral psychology and is essential reading for those concerned with self-esteem.

Richard Keshen is an emeritus professor of philosophy at Cape Breton University and a member of the Common Room at Wolfson College, Oxford University.

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“This book will certainly generate dynamic discussion among philosophers and professional [psychologists] interested in the….necessity ad consequences of self-esteem.” CHOICE

“There is much of value here, including a range of clear-sighted insights into how many of us do and ought to view ourselves and others.” Mind

"Reasonable Self-Esteem is a splendid achievement. Richard Keshen has unravelled the presuppositions of reasonable self-esteem, illustrated them by well-chosen examples, and woven them together with tight moral reasoning in order to produce a persuasive and most appealing answer to an ancient but vital question: How must I live, if I am to think well of myself? This is an original work, informed by a humane and optimistic view of life. It draws together the ideas of living well and living with concern for others. It does much to restore wisdom and knowledge of everyday human psychology to their proper place in moral philosophy." Peter Singer, Centre for Human Bioethics, Monash University. "Reasonable Self-Esteem is the book on the philosophy of self-esteem." Hugo Meynell, Department of Religious Studies, University of Calgary.

“The discussion throughout the book is rich, stimulating, and frequently insightful.” Ethics

“The work is highly original…it is the book on the phenomenology of self-esteem. Furthermore, the book produces an ingenious and comprehensive scheme of concepts for dealing with self-esteem.” Hugo Meynell, University of Calgary

“Keshen’s book is both well-argued and carefully reasoned.” Dialogue