On Gaslighting by Kate Abramson Summary

On Gaslighting examines gaslighting as a distinct moral phenomenon where perpetrators systematically undermine victims’ self-trust and perception. Abramson analyzes its mechanisms, ties to systemic oppression like sexism and racism, and ethical implications through philosophical inquiry and examples, distinguishing it from mere manipulation.

Kate Abramson is an associate professor of philosophy at Indiana University Bloomington, specializing in ethics and feminist philosophy. Her work focuses on moral psychology and interpersonal dynamics, which underpins her rigorous analysis of gaslighting’s ethical dimensions.

This book suits readers interested in philosophical ethics, gender studies, or gaslighting’s societal implications. Academics, mental health professionals, and advocates addressing emotional abuse or systemic inequality will find its analytical depth valuable, though it requires engagement with philosophical concepts.

Yes, for those seeking an academic perspective on gaslighting’s moral foundations. While not a self-help guide, it offers critical insights into power dynamics and systemic oppression. Reviews praise its originality but note its density for casual readers.

Abramson defines gaslighting as intentional interpersonal harm where perpetrators destabilize victims’ confidence in their reasoning, emotions, or perceptions. It systematically erodes epistemic agency, often reinforcing oppressive structures by denying victims’ ability to interpret reality.

Key arguments include gaslighting’s role in maintaining systemic power imbalances, its distinction from manipulation via intent to destroy self-trust, and its immorality as a violation of epistemic reciprocity. Abramson emphasizes its use in dismissing marginalized voices.

Abramson posits gaslighting perpetuates sexist/racist systems by invalidating marginalized groups’ experiences. For example, dismissing women’s accounts of discrimination as “overreactions” reinforces patriarchal narratives denying their epistemic authority.

The 1944 film Gas Light serves as a foundational example, where a husband manipulates his wife’s reality. Modern cases include denying valid emotional responses or rewriting shared events to destabilize victims.

Unlike practical guides, Abramson’s philosophical approach dissects gaslighting’s ethical underpinnings rather than offering coping strategies. It contextualizes the behavior within broader moral frameworks, appealing to academic audiences.

Critics note its dense academic style may limit accessibility. Some suggest expanding on victim psychology and real-world applications, though most praise its theoretical rigor in redefining gaslighting.

The film exemplifies textbook gaslighting: the husband’s manipulation aims not just to deceive but to make his wife doubt her sanity. Abramson uses it to illustrate the perpetrator’s intent to destroy self-trust.

Abramson argues gaslighting corrodes mutual recognition in relationships—the foundational belief that others can accurately interpret reality. Healthy trust requires respecting each other’s epistemic agency, which gaslighters deliberately undermine.