In the sociological and psychological fields “humility” And “modesty” they are concepts often confused or used as synonyms, but they represent different nuances of behavior and our identity. According to the Treccani Dictionary, humility concerns an awareness of one’s limits and a propensity not to exalt one’s value. Modesty, according to the Oxford Dictionary, implies an awareness of one’s abilities but manifests itself with a shy and disinterested attitude. If humility is based on a authentic recognition of one’s limitsin short, modesty is more linked to public presentation of oneselfwith a reserved and sometimes self-diminishing attitude.
Humility, therefore, appears as the result of a profound self-awareness, while modesty is more connected to the management of the image that is projected externally. Social psychologists and anthropologists have explored these qualities considering them personal traits that express social values and specific interaction strategies. In many cultures, humility and modesty are appreciated virtues, but they manifest themselves and influence interpersonal relationships in very different ways.
Meaning of humility: when you recognize your limits
Humility is often seen as a virtue that is based on authentic introspection and acceptance of one’s limitations. Humility involves not only keeping a “low profile” about one’s successes, but is also recognized as an important trait for personal growth and the building of social relationships based on trust and respect mutual. In many cultures and religions, humility is associated with ideals of wisdom and rectitude, openness towards others (and their value) and cooperation.
For example the oriental culturelike the Japanese one, considers humility an essential value for the cohesion and harmony of the community: members of society are encouraged to consider themselves part of a larger whole, reducing the individual ego. In this sense, humility is not just a personal quality, but a virtue that strengthens social cohesion and limits the risk of internal conflicts.
Meaning of modesty: when one does not publicly admit one’s merits
Modesty, while sharing some characteristics with humility, focuses more on public image and a self-presentation strategy. It’s a visible behavior, linked to social perception and management of the impression that others have of us: we show ourselves modest when we want to avoid envy and conflicts.
According to Leary, people choose to adopt modest behavior so as not to appear arrogant, especially in social contexts where competition is high. This form of discretion is therefore more linked to how we wish to be perceived by others and can be a strategic choice aimed at avoiding negative judgements.
Modesty can therefore be strategic in social interactions, allowing us to avoid conflicts and envy. However, some sociological studies suggest that modesty could also be interpreted as a form of social conformisma strategy to adapt to the expectations of humility imposed by the group (we tend to show ourselves modest if we perceive that a “sober” representation of ourselves is encouraged in the environment in which we find ourselves). In this sense, modesty is a response to external pressures: the individual adheres to a shared behavioral model that rewards the lowering of one’s “self-promotion” and, vice versa, rewards self-belittlement. However, by changing the cultural context of reference, the meaning that modesty has for people also changes. In the West, for example, a modest person can be perceived as competent and confident, while in other cultures it could be interpreted as a sign of insecurity.
