‘Mixed Emotions’: Love, Resentment and the Declaration of Independence

Abstract

Abstract This essay explores the value of the ‘mixed emotions’ of love and resentment for constitutional patriotism through a close reading of the Declaration of Independence set in the context of first, the history of resentment, and secondly, theories of justice. After introducing the conceptual framework through a discussion of mixed emotions and constitutional patriotism, the essay turns to a discussion of the Declaration as a ‘sticky’ emotional object meant to evoke both love and resentment. A brief historical account of shifts in understandings of resentment suggests the value of this emotion as a democratic emotion related to justice. Finally, the essay offers some contemporary examples of expressions of resentment in relation to the Declaration to advocate for a redirection of resentment. It concludes by arguing that the love for democratic ideals is inseparable from the resentment inspired by failing to enact those ideals in daily life. Thus, resentment, if directed at the appropriate targets, can be a useful emotion for mobilising constitutional patriotism.