The Final Stand of Evil - Essay Example

? The Final Stand of Evil Introduction The modern society has observed coexistence of evil and goodness. Society is still not completely free from this. For western nations like United States the biggest evil that has previously existed in society was been the slave system. Such a system introduced by United States spread to other countries as well. Toleration of slavery generated the evils in the society. In due course of time such evils have been wiped out of society with elimination of the system of slavery (American Colonization Society 5). In fact colonial rule itself has been the evil of society which had given birth to slavery and was removed with the efforts of some brave citizens of the society (American Colonization Society 206). Evils can only be eliminated from society and put to an end if with advancement of technology for countries, its citizens also show improvement in morality and their form of thinking. They should try and make progress in their thoughts. The evils of society can be observed in those conflicts and fights that not only cause destruction of the material world but also lead towards death of thousands of innocent people. The conflict between cotton spinners at Glasgow had observed such a social evil in 1830 when machines were broken. Such an incident in presence of evils of society is vastly regretted (Statistical Society 387). Thus evils can be put to an end only if such social evils causing destruction and loss of lives can be eliminated completely. The paper discusses such forms of evil existing in society and ways by which it can be put to an end. When it comes to evils in modern society it becomes important to explore the existing relation between evil and sin. In this era, corporate individuals have reduced feelings of guilt as well as responsibilities contributing to generation of such evils in society. The behavior noticed for individuals in modern society is observed to be lacking moral feelings. He even shows no responsibility towards himself. Such deprivations in feelings have largely led towards creating sins and given birth to social evils. What people can do best in society is pointing out the fault and sins of other without even bothering to realize if his/her deeds are justifiable and correct (Lyman 269). The irrational behavior of individuals in society ultimately takes him to the path of creating sins. Evil can come to an end in society only after putting an end to existing weaknesses and developing rational feelings among individuals. With a number of flaws existing in the nature itself, the notion of evil cannot be put to an end and at the same time cannot be ignored. Theology of modern society has always claimed the coexistence of good and evil and also raises questions regarding the final responsibility of evil. The conditions prevailing in nature has to change to put an end to evils existing in modern society (Suchochki 16). Forms of evil existing in society It is believed that the feelings of envy and jealousy have given birth to all the evils existing in society. The societies that have not maintained uniformity in justice had experienced existence of social evils like inequality in their society. For such societies that people are enjoying enormous power and prosperity on one side and on the other side only poverty and neglect has been observed. The system existing in these nations is itself thought of as sinful. These unequal societies frequently observed for industrial nations contain common features such as anger, pride, greed and envy. Obviously the poor had been the victims of such emotions of society. They have often been deprived of fairness in distribution and have provided unequal opportunities to individuals. Priorities have been given to people in accordance to status. It is important that these societies adopt the notion of fairness in their activities and distribution in order to eliminate inequalities and put an end to the evils existing in society (Lyman 190-191). Modern industrial nations are known to carry the social evils like lust within their societies. American sociology has raised concerns over existence of social evils like lust because they drag the individuals towards creating sins. The impact of the social evils like lust is very much visible in these kinds of societies for instances like formation of nuclear families. They can also be noticed for those heterosexual activities of society. In recent era lust lies beneath even for emotional attachments and feelings like love. Impurities have crept in all kinds of feelings and there has occurred a lack of pure feelings. Thus social evils like lust can only be eliminated if individuals can wipe out the impurities from their feelings and concentrate purely on love without any such desire (Lyman 190-191). In this modern society people have set aside their moral feelings and immorality has thus ruled throughout. Moral evils generate in societies depending upon the prevailing natural conditions. Certain natural events supported by evil conditions encountered by human beings become a cause of their sin creation. The forms as well as intensity of moral evils within a society vary with respect to geographical locations and the climate of the region. They are also dependent upon the existing laws of the society (Suchochki 16). Such sins can be prevented from occurring and in turn these evils can be wiped out only if the rule of immorality can be put to an end. However God guarantees this final end of immorality one day thereby putting an end to the reign of evil. Moral law is considered to be the commonwealth of society and its adoption is essential to put the rule of evil to an end (Suchochki 32). It has to be admitted that evil generates in society with the element of power. The more number of individuals attempting to grasp power into their hands generates various unwanted incidents. The society has over the years observed a painful history of struggles in order to achieve success. The incidents of success and failure have varied within societies with respect to intensity. The individual may also change his thinking and intentions once power is within his hands. To drive out such kinds of social evils from society it is important that the individual makes efficient utilization of power with good intentions. Such injections in social character can definitely eliminate social evils (Suchochki 31). Evils have been embedded in various such agencies operating in various localities. They have a negative impact on various aspects of human life. It is important for the medical professionals to become aware of such agencies. Detection of such agencies is essential to be able to wipe out the evils of society. However the system of the nation is such that medical professionals have to overcome many hurdles for such inquiries for wiping out these agencies that generate social evils (Massachusetts Medical Society 270). Although some evils has been wiped out in the 70s era some evils have still been existing in society. During the 1990s the society has witnessed a large number of drug addicts. This was mainly because the affluent classes of Europe used to have sufficient money to afford such drugs. There can be cited as widespread social diseases like HIV which are mostly for underdeveloped countries. Mental diseases have also been observed in countries which have unequal societies. Research studies have shown a positive relation existing between mental diseases and social evils like inequality. Although it was observed to be the greatest during those times, such evils have not been eliminated till date (Dorling). Evil existing in society previously Among the evils that have existing in society and eventually wiped out slavery deserves mention. Trading of slaves have not been introduced by United States but was visible in American society. Gradually such an evil of society had spread to societies of other industrialized nations. Toleration of such a system of slavery was considered to be the biggest sin of societies of that time. The incidence of African slavery system was to such an extent that it was considered to be incurable (American Colonization Society 5). Social evils are like those diseases which are harmful for the body and in this case the society. Society had previously suffered a lot for the prevalence of class system that has been existing within the social relations. Such a system was responsible for various kinds of embarrassments to the public. The society had also witnessed these various classes engaged in conflicts. There had been many protests against the class system and also attempts to remove it. The disagreements with existing government also did not yield any fruitful results. However it has been the promotion of harmony among the people that was gradually able to remove such an evil from society (Statistical Society 131). Evils have existed in the constitutions established for the country itself. For instance the operations of Bank of England in the past had generated an evil in English society. Controversies have arisen at the managerial level and during the issue of notes. It could only be cut off at that time with active interventions of legislation (Statistical Society 272). Mention needs to be made of elitism existing in British society that had given birth to the social evil like inequality and in turn ignorance of masses. Birth of elite classes had led to inequality with respect to income and wealth. More opportunities were provided to students belonging to elite classes. Such evils by 1942 had spread to other societies of Europe. The society during the period 1920-30 had observed immense competition and had only believed in survival of the fittest. This in turn had generated evil beliefs and ideas among people that some individuals have inherited greater potential through genes. This had transformed into a faith in British societies. Such a faith made people believe that people of lower classes do not have enough potential. Social evils like prejudice were also visible in societies at that time. Idleness was also reflected in those societies. However such evils existing in societies during the 30s era have been eliminated in the period of 70s (Dorling). End of evils from society Society can be at its best form only when all the evils are removed from the society. Anything less than that can only be termed as comparatively good or little better. The theory of Individuality can help to solve the problem of evils existing in society. It suggests disintegration of combined interests as a solution. But such disintegration does not mean totally separating out an individual. Rather it should take place with ultimate co-operation. Above all the individual needs to enjoy absolute personal liberty in society. Evils continue to exist in societies when individuals are forced to compromise or surrender themselves (Statistical Society 131). For wiping out any evil from society it is important to inquire about the nature of evil and then getting deep into it. Interferences by the state at a comparatively larger level to eliminate the disturbances of society and in turn wipe out the evils of society (Statistical Society 272). Maintenance of sanity is very important for society to wipe out those social evils that may lead thousands of people to lose their lives or negatively affect their health. Such hygiene problems arise more broadly for countries with huge populations. Eradication of evils becomes more complex and problematic for such countries. The nation, in this context, needs to take proper hygiene measures for society. Only by eradicating such evils the society can experience better health conditions overall. United States may be cited as an example which has regulated its municipal department for maintaining sanity in society. However no legislations interfere within the sanitary conditions of society (Smith 270). The society needs to mend up its improper drainage system and create more spaces for ventilation. Supply of water definitely needs to be improved to prevent high rates of mortality. Populated cities particularly need to ensure that they make such rectifications with respect to hygiene. This will decrease the frequent occurrence of fever improving health conditions. This will in turn ensure that these kinds of evil are driven out from society (Smith 271). Theological beliefs of evils and their end Theology has a unique set of beliefs featuring God and evils. Believers say that existence of intrinsic evils causes sufferings to mankind. For them there is a specific structure defining character and hope. Hope under theology is based upon Jesus Christ who is the savior of mankind. The theologists believe that a lot of evils exist on earth but such permission for evils granted by God is not at all irrational. This is because evils are also believed to give what is called as ‘greater good’. However this again has not been observed from time space has not delivered such good. Developing psychological states of mind under Christian mind are considered to be a natural phenomenon when the individual is encountering dangerous and scary conditions due to evils. Such a phenomenon is known as exasperation by the evils existing in the earth. Evils are also believed to have the ability of possessing an individual and destroying his/her soul. People may not notice the fact that such situations may be created by evils in daily life. Although evils on earth may create intolerable situations this should not in any way compel the individual to raise questions and doubts about the existence of God itself. Such circumstances need some decision making which in turn may help the individual to discover himself. An individual requires a succor to help him overcome pain and misery that is caused by evils (Martin).Theologicians have always shown great interest in knowing the reasons behind existence of evils. The source of evils has been a topic of great interest. Time of arrival of evils has also been questioned. It is believed that God has the ability of eliminating such evils but may not be willing to do so. Such conception of evil according to Epicurus gives birth to self-contradiction. This is because existence of evils may place Christianity in a kind of losing position. Theodicy is concerned with God’s extraction of good in presence of evils. The description of evil generation is given in terms of aesthetic theme which focuses on goodness of God. Theology has also supported beliefs regarding existence of both good and bad angels. Origin of evils is also described in terms of themes of morality. Reasons behind existence of evils had been attempted to discover in terms of morality and justice. Such a description has been compiled into a natural philosophy named as ‘A Survey of Wisdom of God in the Creation’. There should not be doubts about ability of God but instead there should be praises for him for creating such intelligent creatures on earth (Bryant). The beliefs of Christianity have always been considered to be reasonable. The Philosophy of Religion has always been concerned with problems arising due to existence of evils. However it is widely believed that God himself has created evils and their end depends upon the willingness of God. But at the same time God can never be blamed for the occurrence of evil circumstances. The evil occurrences have also been justified under theology in a unique manner. The place of evil in the area of metaphysics can only be identified with the help of privation. Metaphysical evils exist side by side with physical evils. A relation is believed to exist between evils and God as thought under Christianity (King). Evil and his supernatural powers have been a topic of great interest for Western film making and a number of movies have been released on such a topic. The religious beliefs that are observed in Western countries’ movies represent a struggle between the powers of good and evil. Hence the movies on similar topics are based upon life after death and creation of sins. Evils are displayed as supernatural creatures. This is as per the Christianity beliefs. Human beings with their evil nature and activities are considered to be solely responsible for the natural calamities occurring on earth. Evil is thought to be hidden in the basic human character and their way of thinking. Hence the movies on supernatural topics cause a transformation of religious beliefs of evil into Western culture. The Christian beliefs say that an individual can always offer resistance and attempt to fight against the powers of evil but he cannot rescue himself ever from the natural calamities when nature goes out of control. As per the gothic horror and religious beliefs each time a demon or monster causing harm to human beings and earth is defeated, the reign of evils come to an end. When such evils casting a spell or curse upon human beings are driven out through certain rituals, peace returns in earth. Christian beliefs for evil and its power are based upon the devil Satan and his followers. This devil has abilities to resist him from good and carry on his evil activities on earth. The ultimate end of evils is possible by bringing an end to the reign and powers of Satan who is responsible for serial killings on earth against the wishes of God. Besides Satan supernatural creatures like vampires also represent evils on earth that cause immense harm to human beings. In fact they pose a threat to the existence of human beings. With their eye upon women on earth the vampires destroy the structure of family on earth. This creature not only spreads terror himself but also reproduces numerous supernatural creatures like him to perform his job. This blood eating creatures are considered to be a serious threat to human beings and definitely needs to be destroyed to rescue human beings (Stone). Philosophical beliefs of evils are confident that God someday will take strong actions against those evils that bring misery and sufferings to human beings. Hebrew religion also has often question the existence of evil in the midst of the power and abilities of God. This forces to think that why god is willing to tolerate the killing and sufferings of innocent people brought about by evils. Some individuals develop beliefs that evil has the ability to surpass good due to this. But religious beliefs are confident that evils do exist and this is not a deniable fact. It may also be supposed that God has some underlying plans by letting evils to exist. But the ordinary man cannot make out and justify such actions and willingness of God. Hence evil powers cannot be thought of as superior to good. The main explanation given by theologicians for existence of evils is inequality existing within mankind. Evil can only be put to an end when human beings can get out of the trap of inequality (Goeser). Christian religion has symbolized women as evils concentrating on males for the mainstream path. In fact God is thought if a male person in Western religion. Thus women are pushed towards compromise and sacrifices in order to destroy evil existence. Certain institutions perform the task of promoting the concept of women being symbolized as evils or witches. Such explanations of evil nature obviously are unacceptable since they lack fairness. Under such beliefs women become victims of society (Kelly 216). Psychological beliefs of evil and its end Under the area of psychology evil is considered to be within the human body and especially his mind. They are not considered to be any external power. It rules out the existence of demons and ghosts that are believed to be evils under religion. It is considered to be solely humans who have to strengthen their moral thinking and defeat those evil creatures that exist within the individual himself (Stone, 2001). Psychology provides an explanation of how good individuals transform into evils through the expressions of violence. The aggressive nature of humans helps in growth of such violence. The evil nature embedded within the human character initiates a good natured man to engage in evil activities. A situational analysis can perhaps give a better idea of such a transformation. A research undertaken on such a topic based upon the de-individuation model illustrates this state of personality which is a temporary divergence from the original personality of human beings. A number of inputs were chosen for research and the resulting outcome has supported such a model. In fact the psychological explanation of terrorism is given in terms of evil represented in terrorist attacks (Zimbardo). The creation of original sin is explained by the human tendency by which he is dragged towards evil power and engages in evil deeds. Evil is embedded within the basic nature of mankind. Humans sometimes even perform wrong activities while doing the right ones (Kelly 215). The deeds of evils at the topmost level are responsible for those tragedies occurring across the world. In fact evil is a very confusing aspect of human nature and a great difficulty is encountered while providing a proper psychological explanation of evil. Citing the examples of Hitler and other such dictators it is believed that evil at one time has to come to an end and ultimately has to suffer defeat in the hands of good. Modern thinking excludes evil power from being portrayed as a mythical figure. As per modern explanations evil has become a universal phenomenon. Evil has the ability to capture human minds very fast and then it gets reflected within the emotions of individuals. Apart from physical torture evil power also makes a person torture others mentally. However unintentional wrong doings are not considered to be evil deeds. This is claimed as existence of moral evil (Kelly 2-3). Evil nature gets reflected through the individual’s intentions and not merely by his deeds. The deeds can be either intentional or unintentional. The corrupt nature of human beings can be cited as evil intentions. Intentions are not sufficient to perform evil deeds since it requires power. A person by neglecting others and representing selfishness can also reveal his evil nature. Unjustifiable action like serial killings can be cited as an example. But a person does not have to show heroic abilities to prove his goodness. It definitely can be less than that (Reznek 62-63). Evilness is an explanation for dehumanization and destruction. Evil is revealed through the behavior of terrorist suicide bombers and other torturers. However marketing and sale of harmful products are not considered under the category of evil deeds. Evil makes a person turn beast and destroy his own beautiful creations. The person performing those evil deeds are considered to be psychologically disturbed. They may be habituated in torturing and other wrong doings. Evils get reflected in hatred for certain communities, for instance minority communities of a country. These are termed as antisocial behavior. Unwanted situations like poverty are responsible for driving the evil nature even of a good human being. Their dysfunctional lifestyles can be blamed for their evil deeds. Dispositional analysis can be performed to provide explanations of evil represented by individual acts rather than a collective one. Strategies need to be planned for modifying such antisocial behavior which can ultimately end the reign of evil on this earth (Zimbardo 24-25). Psychology has used the theory of existentialism to illustrate the notion of evils and the struggle between good and evil as per religious beliefs. The individuals who are considered to be existentialists are addicted to darkness and remain confined there. Again the evil explained by humanistic psychology can be traced out within the culture. The reality associated with an external force known as evil influences the social and cultural life of individuals. But it is important to deal with the internal problems and emotions to control the evil within mankind rather than paying attention to external evil (Humanistic Psychology- A General Overview). Scientific beliefs of evil and its end Science is largely blamed for creating and increasing the powers of evil. Sometimes usage of science by human beings to gain more supremacy against nature makes him oppose divinity. The scientific inventions are frequently not accepted by nature and a curse is imposed upon human beings through natural calamities. Evil is thought to be embedded within those mad scientists who try to become more powerful and establish their rule over nature by hurting nature through their works and inventions. Evils are also believed to be those creatures who reside in outer space and are termed as aliens. Evils are displayed through the activities of these creatures that bring horrors to human beings. The religious beliefs regarding the evil existing within the aliens is ambiguous because they cannot be put to an end through exorcism which is performed by priests to drive away evils. These creatures also do not surrender with sprinkling of holy water (Stone). Under science, evil is considered to be an imaginative thing. The preaching of evil are also considered to be false. Human life is like a tree which is manufactured by God and has to end up the cycle of life finally with death. Such a phenomenon of ‘tree of life’ has been explained in the ancient scripture of Genesis (Eddy 433). Science believes that god is not a man and this is different from the ancient religious beliefs. Evil under science is only considered to be an illusion and hence non-existent. The origin of evil is from an individual’s superstition. Thus such a false belief of evil has to diminish and disappear totally with the beliefs of existence of God (Eddy 398-399). The notion of evil is believed to exist only in infinite mind. The entire space being filled with God hardly leaves any space for evil. Evil hence cannot exist in the finite world. But individuals still believe in existence of evils because it is preached under divine theology (Eddy 390). The branch of study known as Christian Science focuses on divine healing as performed by Jesus. Here only Christ symbolizes divinity and not Jesus. It explains the existence of evil on this earth due to the fact that goodness which is found for spirituality cannot enter into material bodies. The material world itself is the den of evil. Seen in that context if Jesus is considered to be a man he cannot be God at the same time. The false statements of evil have also been seen in the material revealed in Christian Science. It considers evil to be a myth. Even there is no real explanation for sins and they are also thought to be illusions. Even Christ has never supported such a belief of sin. Christian Science has also falsified the belief centering the existence of devil. The notion of life after death and associated eternal punishment is also considered to be fake (Christian Science- Christian or Cult). Evil can find a place only for illustrating weaknesses of human beings. The spiritual world view claims the battle between good and evil exists within the social system. These evil are construction by the human system and their way of dealing with businesses and religion. This is reflected in natural wars caused by humans against each other. Specifically exploitation existing in modern world presents the explanation for evil. The existence of evil eye and witchcraft are only cultural realities. The traditional beliefs of evil are observed mostly in the culture of tribal people. They associate such shades of evil in battle against one another and the struggle for power. Evil is believed to have a relation in such forms of personal gains. Evil also does not possess a definition when it comes to moral terms. It is only within the form of thinking of people. There is a tendency of humans to relate goodness for their nature and for the others it is considered to be evil. Anyone opposing the views of the individual is considered to be evil for that individual. The unjustifiable, wicked, illegal activities of individuals can be termed as evil deeds. Evil is the challenge that is faced by the goodness of human nature at several instances. The challenge needs to be accepted and evil has to suffer defeat in the hands of good. This can only end the reign of evil on this earth. Chaos arising in societies is considered to be the greatest of all evils (Hiebert).Christian Science has recommended controlling criminal offences in order to drive out those evils originating from wicked minds (Eddy 85). As per Christian Science evil does not get any scope for itself in the midst of the power of human beings. It also cannot exist in the divine economy. Life on earth is always believed to be good with blessings of God (Eddy 276). Conclusion Evils and its end have been explained in various perspectives. There are many forms of social evils existing on this earth like poverty and inequality and they needs to be eliminated through implementation of effective policies. Hygienic measures also needs to be adopted to maintain sanity within the society and prevent the social evils from killing thousands of people with spread of diseases due to lack of hygiene. Some forms of evils like slavery and class system previously existing in society has been put to an end through patriarchal efforts in society. However is still facing problems of social diseases like HIV. Mental diseases have also been observed particularly within societies facing inequality. The theological beliefs have always believed that it is evil power which brings in sufferings to mankind. They have also insisted existence of devils referred as Satan and his followers who are responsible for evil activities on earth. At the same time questions have also been raised on God’s willingness and permission given to evils for existence. Psychology believes that evil dwells within mankind and the person should fight out with his emotions of violence and selfishness to drive out evils rather than concentrating on external forces. The Christian Science rejects the belief of existence of evil spirits in the presence of God. Controlling crime can altogether eliminate the evils originating from wicked minds. Works Cited American Colonization Society, The African repository and colonial journal, Volume 6, United States: Way and Gideon, 1831 Bryant, Barry A. John Wesley On the Origins of Evil, Wesleyan Theological Journal, January 31 2012 Christian Science- Christian or Cult, The Christian Science Journal. CCS, January 31 2012 Dorling, Danny. Social Evils – From Unemployment to Idleness to Prejudice: Some Suggestions for Mapping the Modern Equivalents of These Old Evils onto New Injustices, Review of Economic Analysis, (2002) 2, pp. 3-19, January 31 2012 Eddy, Mary B. Science and health: with key to the Scriptures, Online Publication: Forgotten Books, 2007 Goeser, Christi. The Message of the Hebrew Wisdom Literature, Journal of The Quartz Hill School of Theology, 3, January 31 2012: Hiebert, Paul G., Spiritual Warfare and Worldviews, Direction Journal, (2000) 29. 2, pp. 114-24, January 31 2012: Humanistic Psychology- A General Overview, Humanistic Psychology, 2006, January 31 2012 Kelly, Joseph F. The problem of evil in the Western tradition: from the Book of Job to modern genetics, Minnesota: The Liturgical Press, 2002. King, Bill. Thomas Aquinas on the Metaphysical Problem of Evil, Quodlibet Journal, (2002) 4. 2-3, January 31 2012 Lyman, Stanford M. The seven deadly sins: society and evil, Oxford: General Hall, 1989 Martin, Edward N, Proper Function, Natural Reason and Evils as Extrinsic Goods, Global Journal of Classical Theology, January 31 2012 < http://www.phc.edu/gj_martinpap.php> Reznek, Lawrie. Evil or ill?: justifying the insanity defense, London: Routledge, 1997 Massachusetts Medical Society. Boston medical and surgical journal, Volume 39, Boston: David Clapp, New England Surgical Society, 1849 Statistical Society. Journal of the Statistical Society of London, Volume 2, London: Harvard College Library, 1839 Stone, Bryan The Sanctification of Fear: Images of the Religious in Horror Films, The Journal of Religion and Film, (2001) 5.2, January 31 2012 Suchocki, Marjorie H. The end of evil: process eschatology in historical context, Albany: State University of New York Press, 1988 Zimbardo, Phil, Social Psychology Network, Journal of Personality andSocial Psychology, (2011) 56, pp. 289-295, January 31 2012 < http://zimbardo.socialpsychology.org/ > Zimbardo, PG. (2004). The Social Psychology of Good and Evil, New York: Guilford Press Read More