Evil

Abstract

The existence of immoral behavior and evil expose the vulnerability of morality; both persist despite centuries of moral discourse. The existence of evil has been a vexing problem for believers in an all knowing, omnipotent and beneficent God. The study of atrocities such as the Holocaust, the My Lai massacre, the Armenian genocide, killings by the Khymer Rouge, and the “disappearances” in Argentina have helped define some of the causes of evil. Responsibility for evil acts can often be traced to individual personality factors and the action of individuals, especially those in a position of power. Human behavior can be difficult to predict. Individuals previously considered ordinary have participated in evil acts. Under identical circumstances some individuals can behave admirably while others do not. A human tendency to place obedience to authority over moral concerns and the capacity to accept killing as not extraordinary foster the persistence of evil. Social situational variables can contribute to the emergence of evil behavior. Prevailing circumstances, such as extreme social disorganization, economic distress and major political divisions, have facilitated evil acts. Malicious ideology and propaganda with the dehumanization of out groups can inflame passions and has played a significant role in genocide; for example the virulent anti-Semitism that preceded the Holocaust.