I think that people are inherently evil. Although I don't think good and evil are absolute values, we usually label people as good when they care about others and obey the laws of the land, and we usually label people as evil when they are selfish and malicious. But we have to be taught and socialized to be compassionate and law abiding. While our animalistic urges are inclined towards selfishness and agression. The urges predate and can overpower what we've socialized to be, so I think people are inherently evil.
Your thoughts?
2007-03-26 09:00:32 · 7 answers · asked by Subconsciousless 7 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Well I would love to say that people are born inherently good because babies are sooo sweet!
However, if you look at feral children then you can tell we are born either somewhere in between or possibly inherently evil. They usually think only of themselves (their wants/needs, etc) because they have never been TAUGHT anything else. And I totally agree with you, we are compassionate and kind because we are civilized. And I mean civilized more like socialized as opposed to like "uncivilized societies"
Or perhaps we are just born as blank slates (Dewy's theory I think...) and then molded by our environments. Who knows? Good question!!
2007-03-26 09:10:15 · answer #1 · answered by Tara C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Great question!
I agree with that I think people are inherently bad, but it really depends on the standard of which they are being measured.
If we are judging by a biblical standard then everyone falls short. If the standard is a cultural standard then it will be a sliding scale depending on social norms of the day, unfortunately people can hide their intentions and present themselves as good and loving, but in their hearts are always bad talking others and plotting an enemy's demise. Even if it is just in their imagination that is what is truly in their hearts . Silly as it sounds that is what determines if someone is really good or not. GOODNESS COMES FROM THE INNER PLACES OF OUR HEARTS and spills out to those around us.
2007-03-26 09:25:39 · answer #2 · answered by Knighthawk 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I disagree with your opinion. All people are inherently good, but there are strong and unsuspecting factors that force them to resort to evil ways as a way of defending themselves. I am not justifying the evil act even if it was resorted to in the form of revenge. What I am saying is, we are all human and no matter how righteous we think we are, there are trying times when the better part of us just slips away uncontrollably.
2007-03-26 09:11:31 · answer #3 · answered by Belen 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't agree with the "inherently evil" aspect. You are right that we are taught (or should be at least) to be compassionate and law abiding, but that doesn't necessary mean we would be evil if we weren't taught that. "Selfishness" and "agression (sic)" are bad, but evil? What's your definition of evil?
2007-03-26 09:17:08 · answer #4 · answered by booboola 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
people generally want the approval of their peers, this means they will try to do what is "popular". It is not that they act out of evil generally. So i would classify the human as acting for the good, in a selfish way. does this make sense?
2007-03-26 09:07:32 · answer #5 · answered by wally 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
People are born good (just look at babies and little children) but learn cruelty and hatred as they get older. Fortunately, most people TRY to be good and decent and treat others well.
2007-03-26 09:11:39 · answer #6 · answered by dragonsong 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Their is good and bad in everyone.
As long someone can see the good & bad and trying to do good it's the good way.
2007-03-26 09:08:40 · answer #7 · answered by Chantal D. 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋