ABSTRACT
While anger in sports has been explored in philosophy, the phenomenon known as having a ‘chipped shoulder’ (or CSP) has not. In this paper I explore the nature, causes, and effects of playing with a ‘chip on your shoulder’ in order to highlight the interplay between resentment, motivation, and performance. CSP, on my account, involves a lasting grudge, controlled anger, and desire for non-moral payback at being overlooked, slighted, or underestimated in sports presently or at one point in one’s career. I argue that CSP can motivate and thus enhance athletic performance. I also show how athletes can and should have a chipped shoulder forever.
