The Art Of War: Are People Born Evil Or Become Evil?

Why are some people EVIL? Are they born evil or become evil? Let's talk about it.

One thing is for sure, in life, we want to avoid an evil person.

Sun Tzu, in his philosophy from The Art of War, stated,

Know yourself and know your enemy and you need not worry about the results of a hundred battles.

As someone who follows the philosophy of the Art of War, it is ingrained in our mindset to constantly be attentive to our surroundings, including observing people and their behavior.

We all deal with humans, be it in business, work, or our personal lives. You may know yourself, but do you know the people around you?

It is human nature that people are envious, jealous, selfish, self-centered, or love to win. Are people born evil? Let's know your enemy by discovering,

What is the definition of an evil person?

Evil runs deeper than human nature. An evil person is defined by the mindset that delights in others' suffering, finding pleasure in causing physical and psychological torture.

Their reason for their pleasure in inflicting pain on people comes from their personal experiences, psychological factors, and distorted views that justify their malevolent behavior.

It is the act of doing evil that keeps them "alive." They have no guilt in whatever actions they take. Instead, they may feel a sense of power or superiority in their actions.

Let's explore this in depth...

The characteristics of evil people

When discussing the nature of evil individuals, it is essential to look into the specific characteristics that define their behavior and mindset.

To avoid or to handle evil people, first, you have to know their characteristics.

1. Sadistic

One of the most prominent traits associated with evil people is their sadistic tendencies. Sadism is a psychological condition where an individual derives pleasure from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.

This characteristic manifests in various ways; for instance, sadistic individuals may engage in cruel jokes, bullying, or even more severe forms of abuse.

They often feel emotionally fulfilled when witnessing the distress of others, finding a twisted sense of joy in their suffering. This enjoyment is not just fleeting; it can become a driving force behind their actions, leading them to seek out opportunities to cause harm.

2. No Empathy

Another defining trait of evil individuals is their complete lack of empathy.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, and it is a fundamental aspect of healthy human interaction.

In stark contrast, evil people exhibit a profound indifference to the emotions and thoughts of those around them.

They do not care about the pain they inflict, nor do they consider the impact of their actions on others.

This absence of empathy allows them to act without remorse or consideration for the consequences, making it easier for them to engage in harmful behaviors without a second thought.

3. No Sense Of Guilt

Furthermore, the absence of guilt is a significant characteristic of evil individuals. Typically, when a person commits a wrongful act, they may experience feelings of guilt or regret, which serve as a moral compass guiding future behavior.

However, evil people operate outside this moral framework. They do not experience guilt for their actions, regardless of how damaging or hurtful they may be to others.

This lack of guilt not only reinforces their harmful behaviors but also allows them to continue on their path of destruction without any internal conflict.

4. Manipulation

Manipulation is yet another tool in the arsenal of evil individuals. Manipulation refers to the act of influencing or controlling someone in a clever, often deceptive way.

Evil people use manipulation as a strategic approach to achieve their goals, whether it be to harm others physically or psychologically.

This can involve gaslighting, where they distort reality to create confusion and doubt in the minds of their victims. Through manipulation, they instill fear and uncertainty, making it easier for them to maintain power and control over others.

5. Very Calculative

Moreover, evil individuals are often very calculative in their actions. They find it exceedingly challenging to pretend to engage in good deeds, as such behavior is contrary to their intrinsic nature.

When they do attempt to perform acts of kindness, it is usually a façade meant to mask their true intentions.

This façade can be exhausting for them, as it requires a level of pretense that is not sustainable in the long term. Their genuine inclinations lean towards self-serving actions that prioritize their desires over the well-being of others.

6. Revenge

The characteristic of being revengeful is deeply ingrained in the psyche of evil people. Unlike an ordinary person who may react impulsively when wronged, evil individuals approach revenge with careful planning and forethought.

Their acts of vengeance are meticulously organized and executed, often designed to inflict maximum pain and suffering on their targets.

This calculated approach to revenge is not merely a reaction to perceived slights; it is often a source of pleasure for them. They derive satisfaction from the suffering of others, viewing revenge as a justified means of reclaiming power or control.

7. Control Over Others

Control over others is a trait often associated with individuals who exhibit malevolent or evil characteristics.

This form of control can manifest both physically and psychologically, serving as a means for the perpetrator to exert dominance over their victims.

The desire for control is rooted in a need for power and superiority, which can lead to the manipulation of others' thoughts, emotions, and actions.

By establishing this control, the individual places their victim in a position of vulnerability, rendering them at the mercy of the manipulator's whims and desires.

This dynamic not only illustrates the imbalance of power but also highlights the psychological games that can ensue.

The evil person derives a sense of joy and fulfillment from the suffering they inflict upon their victims, often viewing the act of manipulation as a form of entertainment or a source of personal gratification.

This sadistic pleasure can stem from a variety of motivations, including a desire to feel superior, a need to compensate for their own insecurities, or even an enjoyment of the chaos they create in others' lives.

What makes people evil?

Throughout history, the question of whether individuals are inherently evil or shaped by their environment has sparked intense debate among psychologists, sociologists, and philosophers alike.

Numerous studies have been conducted to explore the complex interplay between nature and nurture in the development of malevolent behaviors.

One thing is certain: while some individuals may exhibit tendencies toward evil, a multitude of external factors significantly contribute to the emergence of such traits.

It all starts with the foundational experiences of an individual’s life, which can set the stage for their moral development.

1. Childhood Trauma

One of the most significant influences on a person's propensity for evil can be traced back to their childhood experiences.

Children who endure traumatic events, such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence, often struggle with emotional regulation and empathy in their later lives.

These early experiences can create deep psychological scars, leading to a distorted view of relationships and a lack of trust in others.

For instance, a child who witnesses domestic violence may internalize aggression as a means of resolving conflict, thereby normalizing harmful behaviors as they grow older.

The long-term effects of such trauma can manifest in various ways, including antisocial behavior, a propensity for manipulation, and a general disregard for the well-being of others.

2. Traumatic Events

Beyond childhood trauma, the impact of traumatic events throughout one’s life can contribute significantly to the development of evil tendencies.

Experiences such as war, natural disasters, or severe accidents can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues.

Individuals grappling with the aftermath of such events may become desensitized to violence and suffering, potentially leading them to commit acts that they might have previously found abhorrent.

The psychological toll of these experiences can warp a person's moral compass, making it challenging for them to empathize with others or to recognize the gravity of their actions.

3. Lack Of Morals

A fundamental aspect of what makes a person evil is often linked to a lack of moral guidance or ethical principles.

Individuals raised in environments devoid of strong moral frameworks may struggle to distinguish right from wrong.

This absence can come from various sources, including dysfunctional family dynamics, cultural norms that glorify violence, lack of moral education in school or a general absence of positive role models.

Without a solid moral foundation, individuals may engage in harmful behaviors without experiencing guilt or remorse, viewing their evil actions as justified under their circumstances.

This moral disengagement can further perpetuate cycles of violence and immorality.

4. Deviant Ideology

The influence of deviant ideologies cannot be overlooked when examining the roots of evil behavior.

Extremist beliefs, whether political, religious, or social, can significantly alter an individual’s worldview, leading them to justify heinous acts in the name of a larger cause.

These ideologies often dehumanize others, portraying certain groups as inferior or as enemies to be eliminated.

When individuals subscribe to such beliefs, the lines between good and evil can become blurred, and they may feel compelled to act in ways that are fundamentally harmful to others, believing they are serving a greater purpose.

5. Power From Being Above The Law

The perception of being above the law brings power and can also contribute to the emergence of evil behavior.

Individuals in positions of power or authority may begin to believe that they are untouchable, leading them to engage in unethical or illegal activities without fear of repercussions.

More power gives them more control over people and more power to exercise their evil thoughts and distorted beliefs without the constraints of the law.

This sense of invincibility can foster a culture of corruption, where individuals prioritize their self-interest over the welfare of others.

When people operate under the assumption that they are not subject to the same rules as everyone else, they may commit profoundly harmful acts, believing they can evade accountability.

6. Bad Socialization

Finally, the process of socialization plays a critical role in shaping an individual's behavior.

Those who are socialized in environments that normalize violence, aggression, or deceit may internalize these behaviors as acceptable.

Peer influences, community norms, and societal expectations all contribute to the development of an individual’s character.

If a person is surrounded by others who engage in or condone harmful actions, they may be more likely to adopt similar behaviors themselves.

This bad socialization can create a cycle where evil actions become perpetuated within groups, leading to a broader acceptance of malevolent behavior.

To sum up, the question of what makes people evil is multiple possibilities and deeply rooted in a combination of personal experiences, societal influences, and psychological factors.

Understanding these elements can provide valuable insight into the complexities of human behavior and what drives people to do what they do.

What does evil physically look like?

Defining or visualizing an evil person's appearance is very difficult.

Evil manifests come in all sorts of forms. They can come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and appearances.

This diversity makes it exceedingly difficult to judge an individual solely based on their outward appearance, as the true essence of a person often lies hidden beneath the surface.

One of the most unsettling aspects of evil is the ability to disguise their intentions and emotions.

An evil person may possess a naturally gifted talent for masking their facial expressions and body language, presenting themselves as charming, approachable, or even benevolent.

This deceptive façade can be cultivated through years of practice, allowing them to manipulate others with ease.

They may smile warmly, maintain eye contact, and engage in seemingly genuine conversations, all while harboring ulterior motives.

Such individuals often take great care to refine their manipulative skills, employing tactics that can bewilder even the most astute observers.

Unmasking the true nature of an evil person requires a keen eye and a deep understanding of human behavior.

It takes considerable skill and discernment to see through the layers of deception that they construct.

How then do you spot an evil person?

Subtle cues, such as inconsistencies in their stories, a lack of empathy in their interactions, or an underlying sense of discomfort in social situations, can serve as indicators of their true intentions.

However, these signs are often obscured by their practiced ability to present themselves in a favorable light, making it a daunting task for others to identify their malevolence.

It is crucial to remember that one should never hastily assume a person's character—whether kind or evil—based solely on their physical appearance.

The notion that a person's outer look can provide insight into their moral standing is a dangerous oversimplification.

People come in all shapes and sizes, and their appearances can be influenced by countless factors, including culture, socioeconomic status, and personal circumstances.

Thus, relying on superficial judgments can lead to grave misunderstandings and mischaracterizations.

In conclusion, the physical manifestation of evil is not bound by any specific traits or characteristics.

It is a deceptive force that can lurk behind the most unassuming exteriors. To truly understand the nature of evil, one must study deeper than the surface, examining actions, motivations, and the underlying psychology of individuals.

Only then can one begin to discern the complexities of human nature and the often-hidden darkness that exists within.

The Art Of War and dealing with evil people

In today's competitive world, some individuals may turn to unethical actions, driven not by choice but by desperation, often justifying their behavior with their own reasons.

The philosophy of The Art of War instructs us on strategies to prevent being targeted by malicious individuals while upholding one's principles.

Learn The Art Of War philosophy to win.