The Asceticism of Emotions

This book delves into the profound challenges posed by the negative emotions—fear, pity, and disgust—that persons with atypical bodies often evoke in their non-disabled peers. It seeks to uncover the theological roots of these reactions and offers a transformative path for overcoming them. Drawing deeply from the ascetical tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church, the book highlights centuries of rich insights into the dynamics of emotions and their spiritual transformation. By engaging with this tradition, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how emotions shape human perception and interaction, particularly in the context of disability. More than just an exploration of aesthetics, emotions, and asceticism, this work enriches the field of disability theology through a constructive dialogue with the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Long underrepresented in the discussions on disability, Eastern Orthodoxy reveals here its resources for reimagining inclusion and human dignity. Petre Maican (PhD University of Aberdeen) is Associate Researcher at The Institute for Eastern Christian Studies of Radboud University (The Netherlands). His current research interests lie at the crossroads between theological anthropology, intellectual disability, and Eastern Orthodox spirituality. His latest book entitled Deification and Modern Orthodox Theology was published with Brill in 2023.