Letter to the Editor

By By

Editor:
SHADENFREUDE
This is a word from the German language that is defined as: A feeling of enjoyment that comes from seeing or hearing about the troubles of other people….also known as epicaricacy. The word is a combination of Schaden (damage) and freude (joy). I can see that many people around Utah and other parts of the world have this condition and don’t even know it. Hitler, Ayatolla Khomeini and Saddam Hussein come to mind, although I could go on forever.
A study conducted in 2009 indicated that the hormone oxytocin may be involved in the feelin of shadenfreude.
In that study, it was reported that when participants in a game of chance were pitted against a player they considered arrogant, inhaling oxytocin through the nose enhanced their feelings of shadenfreude when their opponent lost, as well as their feelings of envy when their opponent won. The same year it was determined, especially for those who strongly identify with their political party, this applies.
Anyone who has been following the political debates can see this is becoming the norm. I have always voted for the people that I thought would do the best job and not just cast an all Democratic or Republican ticket.
I can only deduce the fact that most people cannot even define their political party because the lines are so blurred. If you are old enough to vote or you are inclined, like most folks, to just check the D or R box, think twice…. Do your homework and vote with your heart and true beliefs. Quit letting friends or relatives sway your vote. Remember the golden rule.
Doug Taylor
Emery