I don't think having "moral overtones" is fairly described as a character flaw.
Me neither.
I don't see either righteousness or indignation as character flaws. I agree that in combination they may convey hautiness or contempt.
I agree that looking down one's nose at others is a character flaw. See? We agree.
However, "self-righteousness" and moral indignation are not uncommon as responses
There are lots of common responses--natural, human responses that humans have. Some of those responses are constructive, even noble. Others are not. For those that are not, we can be understanding because they are, indeed, natural and common. That is not the same thing as being admirable. For those responses that are less than admirable, we try to rise above them. When we don't try or are unable to overcome them, I use the term "character flaw." Perhaps that's not the best choice of words. I would be receptive to alternative language to describe it. In any case, that's what I meant by it. I see nothing useful, constructive, or noble in righteous indignation.
[I recall discussion about righteous indignation after 9-11. I recall expressing that I didn't really "get" that response. My experience with indignation has primarily been along the lines of some society matron taking offense because she was expected to attend remedial driver's training along with the maids and the laborers who got speeding tickets and saying, in a huff, "well, I never..." |
