The Interplay between Resentment, Motivation, and Performance

Title: The Interplay between resentment, motivation, and performance
Published by: Journal of the Philosophy of Sport
Release Date: Summer 2019
Pages: 12

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While anger in sports has been explored in philosophy, the phenomenon known as having a ‘chipped shoulder’ (or CSP) has not. In this paper, I explore the nature, causes, and effects of playing with a ‘chip on your shoulder’ in order to highlight the interplay between resentment, motivation, and performance. CSP, on my account, involves a lasting grudge, controlled anger, and desire for non-moral payback at being overlooked, slighted, or underestimated in sports presently or at one point in one’s career. I argue that CSP can motivate and thus enhance athletic performance. I also show how athletes can and should have a chipped shoulder forever.