This paper presents and analyses Martha Nussbaum's book, Political Emotions, with a particular focus on the emotions of fear, envy and shame. In a journey through the history of philosophy, the most important philosophical positions are examined. Furthermore, John Rawls and his theory of justice will also be briefly introduced, as Martha Nussbaum's project can be understood as a continuation of this. In a short digression, Hannah Arendt will also be discussed and the radical nature of evil will be contrasted with the banality of evil.