Newsletter: Why is Shame at the Very Bottom of the Emotions Scale?

Why is Shame at the Very Bottom of the Emotions Scale?

Published 1 March 2025 by

Martin Hamilton

You may have read a previous Newsletter regarding the scale of emotions. I’ve had lots of questions of why is shame at the very bottom of the emotions scale?

In David Hawkins’ Map of Consciousness, shame is placed at the very bottom of the emotions scale, calibrating at 20, for several reasons:

  1. Shame is characterized by intense feelings of worthlessness, self-hatred, and extremely low self-esteem. It represents the most destructive and debilitating emotional state a person can experience.
  2. At this level, individuals may contemplate suicide or engage in self-destructive behaviors. The energy associated with shame is so low that it’s considered just a step above death.
  3. Shame is self-directed hatred, making it particularly toxic to one’s mental and emotional well-being. Unlike guilt, which focuses on specific actions, shame attacks a person’s core sense of self.
  4. People experiencing shame often feel humiliated, paranoid, and may struggle with severe depression. This state can be paralyzing, preventing personal growth or positive change.
  5. Shame is considered a major obstacle to spiritual evolution and personal development. It creates a barrier to experiencing higher states of consciousness, such as love, joy, and peace.
  6. The energy vibration associated with shame is the lowest on the scale, making it the most challenging state from which to progress. It requires significant courage and effort to move beyond this level.

By placing shame at the bottom of the scale, Hawkins emphasizes the profound negative impact this emotion has on human consciousness and highlights the importance of addressing and overcoming shame for personal growth and emotional healing.

Here is Dr. David Hawkins’ map of consciousness, or what I call the scale of emotions. Notice shame is the lowest level moving to higher levels, and ultimately to enlightenment.

EmotionLevel of Consciousness
Enlightenment700-1000
Peace600
Joy540
Love500
Reason400
Acceptance350
Willingness310
Neutrality250
Courage200
Pride175
Anger150
Desire125
Fear100
Grief75
Apathy50
Guilt30
Shame20

What are the main differences between shame and guilt on the scale?

The main differences between shame and guilt on the scale are:

  1. Focus of negative evaluation:
    • Shame involves a negative evaluation of the entire self (“I am a bad person”).
    • Guilt focuses on a specific behavior or action (“I did a bad thing”).
  2. Self-perception:
    • Shame leads to feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy about one’s core self.
    • Guilt is associated with remorse about a particular misdeed or shortcoming.
  3. Emotional impact:
    • Shame is more painful and debilitating, affecting one’s core sense of self.
    • Guilt, while uncomfortable, is less disabling and can motivate positive change.
  4. Behavioral tendencies:
    • Shame often leads to withdrawal, self-destructive behaviors, or attempts to hide.
    • Guilt is more likely to motivate reparative actions or efforts to make amends.
  5. Adaptive value:
    • Shame is generally viewed as less adaptive and potentially harmful.
    • Guilt is considered more adaptive and can lead to constructive outcomes.
  6. Self-esteem impact:
    • Shame attacks a person’s overall self-esteem and sense of adequacy.
    • Guilt is more focused on specific actions and their consequences.
  7. Perceived control:
    • Shame often involves feeling a lack of power to meet personal or societal standards.
    • Guilt implies a sense of responsibility and perceived ability to have acted differently.

While shame and guilt can coexist and are often correlated, understanding their distinctions is crucial for addressing emotional well-being and promoting adaptive responses to personal shortcomings or transgressions.

How can we move from a state of shame to a higher level of consciousness?

Moving from a state of shame to a higher level of consciousness requires intentional effort and practice. Here are some strategies to help elevate your consciousness:

  1. Acknowledge and face the shame: Recognize the feeling of shame without judgment. This is the first step in letting go of lower states of consciousness.
  2. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Replace self-loathing with self-acceptance and love.
  3. Engage in daily reflection: Take time each day to sit in silence, journal, and observe your thoughts and feelings without attachment.
  4. Let go of painful beliefs: Identify negative thoughts and stories you hold about yourself and consciously choose to release them.
  5. Seek professional help: Consider working with a therapist who can guide you through processing and releasing shame.
  6. Focus on neutrality: Aim to cultivate a non-judgmental, flexible mindset about yourself and your experiences.
  7. Practice mindfulness: Stay present and observe your thoughts and emotions without identifying with them3.
  8. Cultivate courage: Take small steps to face fears and challenges, which can help build self-confidence and raise your consciousness.
  9. Engage in self-reflection: Regularly examine your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors to gain insight into your patterns.
  10. Embrace the “All Is Welcome Here” mindset: Accept all experiences as part of your journey, trusting that they contribute to your growth.

Remember, moving up the scale of consciousness is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. As you consistently practice these techniques, you may find yourself naturally progressing to higher states of awareness and self-acceptance.

Learn more about David Hawkins’ Map of Consciousness.

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